OWOSSO, MI — Baker College concluded its 2026 Employee Appreciation Week on March 6, marking a system-wide celebration of the faculty and staff who drive the institution’s student-first mission. Held from March 2–6, the events brought together employees from all six Michigan campuses and the online campus to recognize their collective impact on student success and community engagement.
The week-long program featured a 1970s theme, offering a nostalgic tribute to a formative era in the college’s history as the institution prepares for its 115th anniversary this fall. Each campus hosted commemorative gatherings, while a livestream of the program allowed remote and online employees to join the celebration, including service year recognitions and the presentation of annual institutional awards.
“What makes our college truly special is our people,” said Dr. Jacqui Spicer, President and CEO. “Every day, I see the professionalism, talent, and care our employees bring to this campus and to the students we serve. Their commitment to our students and to one another strengthens our community and advances our mission. I am deeply grateful for their dedication and the difference they make across our college.”
A major highlight of the celebration was the historic unveiling of the first-ever official mascot costume for Scout the Bee. The introduction of the physical mascot marks a new chapter in institutional pride and campus life, providing a tangible symbol of the Baker College spirit for students, alumni, and employees.
To celebrate the 1970s theme, employees participated in a variety of interactive activities, including creating custom tie-dye shirts. The college also partnered with local vendors to provide free on-site massages for all employees. Additionally, employees utilized “BeeDazzle,” a custom AI photo application that allowed users to transform their modern portraits into Baker-branded photos styled in 1970s-era aesthetics.
The festivities included the announcement of the 2026 award recipients. These honors recognize individuals who exemplify the college’s core values through their daily work and commitment to the Baker College mission.
2026 Employee Award Winners:
Community Steward Award
The Community Steward Award recognizes an employee whose volunteerism or community partnership efforts strengthen Baker College’s connection with local communities and the broader region while advancing our mission of service.
- Cadillac: Anya Petersen, LVT, Veterinary Technology Program Director
- Jackson: Lezlie Bowles, Administrative Support Specialist
- Muskegon: Cassie Kregger, MBA, COTA/L, Program Director, OTA Program
- Owosso: Kelsey Mapes, MSN, RN, Clinical Coordinator
- Port Huron: Paula Recinella, CHE®, HAAC®, Program Director & Restaurant Manager
- Royal Oak: Nathan Wright, Assistant Director of Strategic Partners and Continuing Education
- Online: Na “Lina” Li, Ph.D., Professor, Dean of Graduate Programs, Director of Education Abroad & Global Programs & DBA Program Director
Student-First Champion Award
The Student-First Champion Award celebrates an employee who goes above expectations to empower students, to create a welcoming experience, and to directly support student achievement and retention.
- Cadillac: Amber Durst MS, BHSA, CMA (AAMA), Director of Student Affairs
- Jackson: Christine McDermott, Administrative Assistant and Professional Tutor/Consultant
- Muskegon: Crystal Williams, Faculty – Chef Instructor
- Owosso: Dr. Carole Cocagne, Medical Director
- Port Huron: Richard Brewer, Director of Facilities
- Royal Oak: Iris Lane, Ed.D., Director of Student Services, First Generation Student Success
- Online: Keith Haslett, Enrollment Specialist
Distinguished Service Award
The Distinguished Service Award honors a long-serving employee at Baker College whose dedication, influence, and professional excellence have shaped the College in a lasting way.
- Cadillac: Mary Jo Binkley, Director of Facilities (45 years)
- Jackson: Christine McDermott, Administrative Assistant and Professional Tutor/Consultant (30 years)
- Muskegon: Debbie Smith, Senior Admissions Advisor (38 years)
- Owosso: Lynette Kozlowski, Administrative Assistant III (40 years)
- Port Huron: Lisa Lucas, Administrative Assistant II (33 years)
- Royal Oak: Linda Katrinic, Vice President for Financial Aid (36 years)
- Online: Joseph Pepoy, Adjunct Faculty—Instructor (31 years)
Campus Impact Award
The Campus Impact Award recognizes the campus that demonstrates the strongest overall performance in student success, operational excellence, and community engagement during the 2024–2025 academic year. This year, the honor was awarded to the Baker College of Royal Oak campus, recognizing the team’s outstanding commitment to supporting students and strengthening connections within the community.
“Across Baker College, our leadership team shares a strong commitment to being an employer of choice, and that commitment has been reflected in several recent honors, including Detroit Business Top Corporate Culture for 2026 and the 2025 West Michigan, Metropolitan Detroit, and National Best and Brightest Places to Work awards,” said Dr. Voula Erfourth, Chief People Officer. “When people believe in the work they do and feel valued while doing it, they show up more fully for one another and for our students, who remain at the center of everything we do. Our employee recognition programs are one way we express our gratitude to the colleagues who support each other and our students every day.”
Baker College Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on six campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more at baker.edu and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.