MOUNT VERNON – Dr. Melanie Timmerman was named Faculty Member of the Year, while Dennis Dennison was named Staff Member of the Year as Mount Vernon Nazarene University celebrated the contributions of faculty and staff during the recent University Dinner.

Timmerman, professor of business and dean of Jetter School of Professional Studies, was recognized for her commitment to MVNU’s mission and vision by going above and beyond to lead by example to shape lives and demonstrate Christian character.

“Every interaction with her is one in which you walk away enriched and empowered,” said Dr. Amy Kovach, vice president for Academic Affairs.

Dennison was praised for his growth from a staff electrician to the assistant director/project manager for Facilities Operations and for developing a project finance tracking system that has reduced workload and increased transparency on campus projects.

“Dennis continues to develop as a valued member of the Facilities team,” said Scott Campbell, CFO and vice president for Finance. “Even when challenges and disappointments are present, Dennis stays strong and is a positive, Christlike example to the world.”

President Dr. Henry W. Spaulding II addressed faculty and staff to launch the 2022-23 academic year, celebrate the work accomplished at the university, and reinforce that all contributions matter.

“Christian higher education is not easy, but it is worth every tear, every prayer and every unspoken dream. It is worth it because what we do matters for the church and for the world,” Spaulding said.

MVNU celebrated the long-term commitment of faculty and staff with the following service awards:

5 Year Awards — Eric Brown, Amy Flavin, Zachary Ganzberg, Dr. Florence Hardjono, Dr. Binyang Hou, Dr. Christina Jones, Marie Kennedy, Becky Leija, Gary McCutcheon, Paul McNeal, David McPeak, Lyndsey McPherson, Matthew McPherson, Dr. Jose Oommen, Dr. Michael Robbeloth, Cheryl Sharpes, Charlotte Skeese, Joy Strickland, Lisa VanNest and Cheryl White

10-Year Awards — Katie Booth, Kevin Chaney, Dr. Carol Dorough, Jamie Thorne, Dr. Eric Vail and Lisa Walchle

15-Year Awards — Dr. Carrie Beal, Dr. Elizabeth Napier, Esther Rudolph, Linda Tarrh and Dr. Bradley Whitaker

20-Year Awards — Sheryl Arden, Joyce McDonald, Toni Veale and Rodney Yoder

25-Year Awards — Brian Baby, Dr. John Noonen, Vicky Reed and Alan Shaffer

30-Year Awards — Debbie Beheler and Gina Blanchard

35-Year Awards — Judy DeVolld

40-Year Awards — Denise Parks