State Fair Community College employees Kristy Woolery, director of Concurrent Learning, and Leah Mullen, student engagement coordinator, recently received 2026 NISOD Excellence Awards in recognition of their outstanding dedication to students, colleagues and the college.

The National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Awards recognize faculty members, staff and administrators who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment and contribution to their students and colleagues. SFCC is a NISOD member institution.

Woolery supports SFCC’s Early College programs, which provide opportunities for high school students to earn college credit while completing their high school education. Through her work, she helps support students as they begin their college education and works with area schools to expand access to college-level learning opportunities.
Mullen serves as SFCC’s student engagement coordinator and previously worked with students through the college’s TRiO program. Throughout her roles at SFCC, she has been an advocate for students and has worked to create supportive and engaging experiences that help them succeed.

“Kristy and Leah embody our commitment to student-centeredness,” said Dr. Michael Murders, vice president for academic and student success. “Kristy is the heart and soul of our Early College programs, supporting our high school students as they gain college credit, and Leah has been the biggest advocate for our TRiO students to be successful. Both have gone above and beyond to create supportive, engaging and inclusive learning environments where students can thrive.

“This award celebrates their dedication, innovation and service that affirms the vital role they play in student success and in fostering a culture where students remain at the heart of everything we do. This recognition also inspires others across the college community to prioritize student needs in our daily work.”

Woolery and Mullen join SFCC adjunct instructor Leslie Brantley as recipients of 2026 NISOD Excellence Awards. Brantley received her award in July.