Unsung Hero Awards

2023 Unsung Hero Awards Winners

Unsung Hero Student Award: Harry Dent

Harry Dent has not only made a difference with college events, but he has connected with students through work with Counseling Services and has given his time to help spread the word about mental health awareness. Academically, he is described as a fantastic student, one who takes the time to encourage those who may be struggling. He is known for going above and beyond to reach out to others.

Unsung Hero Employee Award: Janna Barnes

Janna Barnes, a twenty-year employee who works as the technology specialist and sign language coordinator for Student Disability Services, is known for being ready and very willing to help others. Whether she is assisting students with software that helps them be successful or lending a hand to employees who need her help with accessibility issues, she loves what she does and it shows each and every day on the job. 

Unsung Hero Employee Award: Brett Barclay

Even though he has back-to-back advising appointments, Brett Barclay makes the time to help students navigate their student planning, financial aid and business office questions, encouraging them with tours, answers, and information. He brings a positive attitude, a willingness to put others first, and a smile to every request, making a clear difference for students and employees.

Unsung Hero Employee Award: Valerie Burnside

Valerie Burnside has served several departments at the college with dedication and enthusiasm, keeping student success at the forefront as she provides phenomenal service to faculty, students, and staff. Treating each person as special and giving them her undivided attention, she has helped many students see the light at the end of the tunnel and guided them forward. She has also ensured that the work of the Customer Care Team goes smoothly and consistently by creating a list of frequently asked questions and responses.

Unsung Hero Employee Award: Novokia Thomas

When Novokia Thomas started work with the Customer Care team, she created an internal guide that detailed all the steps for admissions, financial aid, student records, the business office, and OIT support. This manual ensured that new employees could deliver accurate information to callers. Now she is working as the assistant manager for the Customer Care Department, helping to see that callers get answers to their questions quickly and efficiently.

Unsung Hero Employee Award: Ron Bachman

Ron Bachman is known for selflessness, generosity, and a strong work ethic. Ask for his help and you will receive it with a smile, whether that means volunteering for an event or building the college’s first Christmas float. At the core of his actions is a concern for others, one that leads him to show up early and stay late if he can provide information to students and parents.

Unsung Hero Community Award: Peg and Harry van Bergen

Harry arrived in this country speaking no English, but with education and determination, was able to improve his situation and build a successful business. Peg saw how advantages became available because of her education and went on to chair the Mayor’s Council on Literacy in Charleston, giving back to move the community forward. Peg and Harry van Bergen eventually moved to the Woodlands at Furman and worked with the Greenville Tech Foundation to establish an endowed scholarship, giving preference to anyone working there. Peg and Harry continue to encourage potential students to find their paths at GTC, and they invite their friends and neighbors to support scholarships through charitable giving.