College of The Albemarle (COA) proudly announces the recipients of its annual employee recognition awards, presented by Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President, during Employee Appreciation Day on May 1. The celebration honored faculty and staff for their exemplary service, excellence in instruction and leadership, years of service and upcoming retirements.
The annual event brought employees together from across all COA locations for a day of recognition and appreciation, celebrating the dedication and commitment that continue to strengthen the College and support student success.
Institutional Support Staff Employee of the Year
Johnny McPherson, COA Maintenance Supervisor, was recognized for his consistent leadership and dedication to maintaining campus operations. Despite ongoing demands and limited resources, he remains dependable, focused and committed to ensuring facilities across the College continue to operate smoothly. Colleagues praised his positive attitude and steady leadership, noting that even under pressure, his professionalism and commitment never waver.
Paraprofessional/Technical/Clerical Staff Employee of the Year
LaShonda Walker, COA Senior Accountant and Payroll Administrator, was honored for her reliability, expertise and unwavering support of both her team and the College. She manages critical payroll and reporting responsibilities with precision while remaining consistently available to assist others. Colleagues noted her ability to lead with patience and provide support even in challenging situations.
Professional Staff Employee of the Year
Battina Cole, COA Director of Career and College Promise (CCP), was celebrated for her leadership, professionalism and dedication to students and colleagues alike. In her role, she manages complex responsibilities with care while helping expand opportunities for students. Colleagues recognized her authenticity, resilience and positive energy, noting the meaningful impact she has across the College.
2026 NC Community College System Staff Award Nominee
Tammy Sawyer, COA Director of Communications and Marketing, was selected as the College’s nominee for the North Carolina Community College System Staff Award. Through her leadership in communications and marketing, she has strengthened the College’s visibility and built systems that ensure COA’s message is clear, consistent and impactful throughout the region. Her dedication to internal and external engagement continues to positively shape how the College is represented in the community.
Teacher of the Year
Barbie Sawyer, COA Work-Based Learning Program Coordinator and Associate Professor for Information Systems, was recognized for her exceptional commitment to student success through her work in skilled trades and workforce development. By building strong partnerships with local employers and aligning curriculum with industry standards, she helps students gain the technical and professional skills needed for high-demand careers.
Faculty Excellence Award
Michelle Ford, COA English Instructor, was recognized for creating a supportive and engaging learning environment that challenges students to grow as thinkers and writers while maintaining high expectations. She is also recognized for her leadership in integrating artificial intelligence into education and for promoting its responsible use to enhance student learning.
Retirements
COA recognized employees retiring from the College whose years of service and dedication have made a meaningful impact on students, colleagues and the institution.
Jeffrey Carter, retiring after 30 years of service to COA, is pictured with Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President. Carter served as Chair of Allied Health and Associate Professor of Health, Wellness and Physical Education.
Paulette Wagner, retiring after 4 years, 5 months of service to COA, is pictured with Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President. Wagner served as Associate Professor of Mathematics.
President’s Next Generation Leadership Academy
The College recognized participants in the President’s Next Generation Leadership Academy – Cohort 3. These individuals are investing in their leadership development and helping shape the future of COA.
Cohort 3 participants are pictured with Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President (from left): Hayley Warren, Megan Bundy, Sandra Krueger, Radoslava Peele, Tara Alexander, J`Niea Lyons, Dawn Allen and Andrew DeFeo.
Milestone Years of Service
Employees celebrating milestone years of service were also honored during the event. Those recognized for 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 years of service represent every area of the College, and their contributions continue to play a vital role in supporting COA’s mission and daily operations.
Recipients of Five-Year Service Awards are pictured with Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President (from left): Jessica Buckley-Williams, Thomyka Holloman, JaQuay Sutton, Crystal Woodley, Kris Burris, Kimberly Blount and Sara Shepherd. Not pictured: Joshua Alcocer, Clifton Beaman, Jr., Scott Breon, Elizabeth England, Carla Godwin and Maurice Jordan.
Recipients of Ten-Year Service Awards are pictured with Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President (from left): Andrew DeFeo and Valerie Mueller. Not pictured: Jeff Spear and Andrea Thomas.
Recipients of Fifteen-Year Service Awards are pictured with Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President (from left): Andrea Dance and Brandy Wooten. Not pictured: Tammy Kelly and Derek Meredith.
Recipients of Twenty-Year Service Awards are pictured with Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President (from left): Laura Morrison and Barbie Sawyer. Not pictured: Christopher Perry.
Recipient of the Thirty-Year Service Award Jeffrey Carter is pictured with Dr. Jack Bagwell, COA President.
The College extends its warmest congratulations and appreciation to all who were recognized.
For information or media inquiries, contact Tammy W. Sawyer, director of communications and marketing, at [email protected] or 252-335-0821, ext. 2420.