UKIAH, Calif. – The beautiful blue skies and lush green hillsides were the backdrop to Mendocino College’s annual staff appreciation barbecue.

Held on Tuesday, April 30, the end-of-year luncheon included the recognition of this year’s retirees and classified staff who go above and beyond on behalf of students.

This year’s classified staff honorees included Gregory Byard, instructional assistant, ceramics; Lana Eberhard, marketing program specialist; Naoto Horiguchi, athletic trainer; Susan Orozco, assistive technology/alternative media specialist; Cindey Parker, accounting technician; and Dean Vickers, biology laboratory technician.

President Arturo Reyes and College Trustee Joan Ericksen recognized five staff members who are retiring this year. Collectively they represent over 115 years of employment at Mendocino College.  

They are Candie Dickinson, Counseling; Betty Antoni, Human Resources; Mark Rawitsch, Dean of Instruction for Willits and Lakeport; Charles Duffy, Institutional Research; and Paula Gray, art professor.