The family of career-focused training schools West Virginia Junior College (WVJC), East Ohio College (EOC), United Career Institute (UCI), and Boardman Training Center (BTC) recognizes the hard work and dedication of employees by presenting Leadership Awards for 2025.

Employees throughout the organization nominated this year’s Leadership Award recipients for their exceptional leadership, contributions, and commitment to students. These awards celebrate individuals who inspire others, innovate, and demonstrate a passion for education.

The recipients of the 2025 Leadership Awards are as follows:

Bridge Builder Award – Erica Murray, Nursing Compliance / Orientation Coordinator

“I am profoundly honored to receive the Bridge Builder Award. I extend my deepest gratitude to the organization for recognizing my commitment to fostering connections and uniting various departments in service of our students. This award motivates me to continue striving for an even more connected and harmonious community for their benefit,” said Murray.

Core Values Champion Award – Debra Boyd, Admissions Team Lead

“I am honored to be chosen for this award. As a graduate and parent of a graduate, I received tremendous support during my journey with WVJC. With this type of individualized support, I gained the confidence to obtain my higher education later in life while being a married full-time working mom of four. This experience drove me back to apply and work for the institution. It has always been my number 1 goal to give back a similar experience to every student I encounter, by always providing the highest level of support. Each student is unique. The ‘We Care’ Core Values have always been at the forefront of how I do my job, and provide assistance. I am forever grateful for all of the academic and professional support from this institution,” said Boyd.

Educator of The Year Award – Dr. Aaron Settle, Instructor of General Education & Medical Education

“Being nominated and recognized as Educator of the Year has been the highest honor of my 30-year career in education. I specifically want to thank the campus presidents, program directors, and students for having faith and confidence in me in regard to the delivery of the curriculum and allowing me to be a part of the student’s life-changing learning,” said Settle.

Excellence in Service Award – Jon Ream,

Orientation Coordinator

“I am truly humbled and deeply honored to receive this recognition. Providing excellent service is never a solo journey–it’s a shared commitment built on teamwork, support, and the inspiration we give one another. I am incredibly grateful to my colleagues, whose dedication and passion uplift me every day. This award is not just a recognition of my efforts but a testament to the power of serving others with heart and purpose. Thank you for this incredible honor,” said Ream.

Innovator of The Year Award – Shane Welter, Assistant Director of Curriculum Development & Innovation

“Being recognized as Innovator of the Year is a remarkable honor that underscores our team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation. This award inspires me to continue challenging the status quo and striving for excellence in all we do,” said Welter.

Unsung Hero Award – Jody Weiss,

Director of Financial Aid Auditing & Compliance

“This award is not just for me; it belongs to everyone who has inspired and supported me along my journey. To my family, friends, colleagues, and mentors, thank you for your encouragement and belief in my work. I also want to acknowledge those who work tirelessly behind the scenes–your dedication does not go unnoticed. While we may not always be in the spotlight, our efforts are felt in the lives we touch. I want to take this moment to recognize the countless other unsung heroes among us–those whose names may not be called today but whose contributions are just as meaningful. This award serves as a reminder that even the quietest efforts can have the loudest impact,” said Weiss.

Rookie of The Year Award – Cheyanne Rusnak, Admissions Team Member

“Receiving the WVJC Rookie of the Year award has been a powerful reminder of this organization’s impact on my personal and professional growth. There’s nothing more fulfilling than learning about students’ career aspirations and guiding them toward success. WVJC has truly changed my life, and I am grateful for the opportunity to help students transform theirs by starting new careers. The work is so rewarding that it never feels like a job–it’s a passion. I can’t wait for my first graduation ceremony, where I’ll witness my students walk across the stage and step confidently into their dream careers,” said Rusnak.

To learn more about WVJC, East Ohio College, United Career Institute, or Boardman Training Center, visitwvjc.edu,eastohio.edu,unitedcareer.edu, orboardmantraining.com.