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MCC Daily Tribune

TCC Day 5 of Kudos: From Students to Faculty

Please join the TCC in congratulating the following faculty members from a variety of departments and check out these kudos from their students:  

Gabe Armatas, CHE/GEO

  • As an international student, I was afraid to face chemistry in a language that is not mine and even though chemistry has its own language, I considered chemistry an scary subject. However, Professor Armatas made it very easy, he has an excellent diction which makes it understandable, incredible energy and kept me focused. (He is very inclusive and Didactic too.)

Burton Betchart, Engineering Science and Physics

  • Professor Betchart has not only taken time to help clarify topics in which I lacked understanding, his lectures and assignments are set up in a way to allow you to come to greater insights and discover things you normally wouldn't. He is also a great resource of knowledge that deeply understands the topics he teaches and is always willing to answer questions anyone has.

Marisol Galarza-Ruiz, World Languages

  • Profesora helped me with so much every time I came to her class. She's filled with so much energy when teaching and makes sure everyone participates so we can learn from each other and also get to know one another. She made everyone feel really comfortable in class and is very understanding. She is fun and vibrant and passionate about teaching and it shows. I thought I would struggle in Spanish but not with her, she's my favorite professor and I recommend anyone who has to take SPA 101 to take it with her. Thank you Profesora for being you. ;)

Jonathon Little, CHE/GEO

  • Professor Johanton Little is approachable and easy to communicate with. He really wants the student to succeed not only within the class he teaches but also beyond. I appreciate also the fast grading for the assignments and encouraging feedback. He's awesome teacher.

Elizabeth(Betty) Mandly, Human Services

  • Professor Mandly brought a refreshing, upbeat and pleasant vibe to class and also to the work that she presented and taught to those of us in her Trauma Informed Care class. She has been very supportive and understanding with those of us who have had some life experiences intrude into our academic careers. She never hesitates to make time for anyone in need! She has definitely left her mark on me and many that I know.
  • Professor Mandly goes above and beyond for her students. She wants all of us to succeed and will do anything in her power to help us achieve our goals. She checks in to see how her students are doing mentally, physically and emotionally. She truly cares and is passionate on the work that she does.

George Merz, Applied Technology Center

  • Mr. Merz goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome and comfortable in his class. He takes the time to make sure you understand and will even go out of his way to take the extra step if you don't. From day one he has expressed the love he has for teaching, and it shows in his passion as he teaches daily. He is one of my favorite teachers and he makes me believe in myself even when I have doubts. Also, earlier this year I had a major tragedy that happened when a true friend of mine passed away at a concert, we both attended, and it was all over the news for weeks and it occurred at the Main Street Armory for weeks I was in a bad place, and he was there through multiple support emails and sympathy cards. Without his support I may have not come back to school but there was something in his words that felt warming, and I'll never forget. Thank you, Mr. Merz your support goes deeper, than you will ever know.

Mary Mohr, Engineering Science and Physics

  • Everything!

David Pultorak, Engineering Science and Physics

  • Professor Pultorak is a wonderful professor. He always is willing to help you no matter what time of the day it is. He tries to make class as fun and informative as possible. He takes into account what students might be feeling during class (Example: Anxious, nervous, worried.) and tries to account for that over anything else. He is always willing to not only answer questions but to step by step help you throughout the issues you are facing. I have had multiple times where I got lost in labs and Pultorak not only answered questions but sat down during labs with me and helped me through it until he knew I had it under control. He always has a smile on his face and always tries to stay positive during and outside of class. He is a great role model and an excellent professor who always reassures you when you need it most.

Penny Sayles, Health and Physical Education

  • Professor Sayles has taught me so much about health that I did not know that has really changed my life for the better. Before this class, I was ignorant of what a healthy lifestyle is. Professor Sayles has changed all that and I am eternally grateful to her for that. I have learned lessons from Professor Sayles that will last the rest of my life. God bless.
  • Professor Penny Sayles has the best online class (HED 130) that I have ever taken. I have learned a lot about what it means to be healthy. Professor Sayles also encouraged me to participate in Scholar's Day, and supported my research throughout the entire semester. She is genuinely such a kind and caring person.

Ben Schermerhorn, Engineering Science and Physics

  • Dr.Ben is helps each student learn in a way that works best for them and he puts a lot of time and energy into making sure his students have all the support they need to be successful. They inspire me to be a better student and person.

Eric Strong, Applied Technology Center

  • Eric is always helpful and understanding with students. Whenever a question is asked by a student he guides them in the correct direction whilst forcing them to think through the situation and figure it out for learning purposes. His bright and cheerful personality always makes long lectures pleasurable to enjoy. I will truly miss having classes with Professor Eric Strong very much and I cannot thank him enough for his help and guidance through my time with him as a teacher.

Alexis Vogt, Optics

  • Alexis always checks in with us to see how we are doing and offers help and support if/when we need it. She has a giant heart and cares deeply for the students and the school.

Terry Shamblin
Teaching and Creativity Center
05/12/2023