State Fair Community College award recipients were recognized during the Missouri Community College Association's (MCCA) 62nd Annual Convention & Trade Show in Branson, Missouri. The awards were presented Thursday, Nov. 5, during the convention's awards dinner.
MCCA's Recognition and Excellence Awards program honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding service, leadership and contributions to Missouri's community colleges.
SFCC's honorees included the Marshall-Rice family, recipients of the Award of Distinction, and Brandon Hammond, director of residential life, recipient of the Administrative Professional Leadership Award.
The Marshall-Rice family received MCCA's Award of Distinction, one of the association's highest honors, presented to individuals who demonstrate sustained service and exceptional commitment to their local community college. Rusty Rice accepted the award on behalf of the family.
The Marshall-Rice family was nominated for its longstanding generosity and support of SFCC and communities throughout mid- and western Missouri. Following the passing of family patriarch Charlie Marshall, the family honored his legacy and passion for sports with a $1 million gift to SFCC's Athletic Complex capital campaign. The contribution secured the naming of the Charlie Marshall Baseball Field and supports the college's athletic programs and student-athletes.
The family, which owns McDonald's restaurants throughout the region, also supports numerous schools and community initiatives, often providing assistance without public recognition. Their continued involvement reflects a commitment to education, athletics and the communities they serve.
“The Marshall-Rice family has been an extraordinary supporter of State Fair Community College and the communities we serve,” said SFCC President Dr. Brent Bates. “Their generosity has made a lasting impact on our college, and their $1 million gift to honor Charlie Marshall’s legacy will benefit our student-athletes for generations to come. We are grateful for their continued commitment to SFCC and proud to see them receive this well-deserved statewide recognition.”
Brandon Hammond, director of residential life, received MCCA's Administrative Professional Leadership Award. The award recognizes administrative professionals who demonstrate exemplary leadership, outstanding campus involvement and a commitment to advancing the mission of Missouri's community colleges.
Hammond was nominated for his work as a TRiO advisor and his dedication to helping students overcome challenges and achieve their educational goals, particularly first-generation college students and those from low-income backgrounds.
Known for his welcoming personality, patience and commitment to student success, Hammond provides guidance and encouragement to students throughout their college experience. His willingness to assist students beyond his assigned TRiO caseload has earned him praise for creating an environment where students feel comfortable seeking support and finding solutions.
Through his work, Hammond helps students build confidence, navigate college resources and develop the skills needed to succeed academically and personally.
“Brandon exemplifies the commitment to student success that makes State Fair Community College special,” said Bates. “He goes above and beyond to make sure students feel welcomed, supported and confident in their ability to succeed. His compassion, positive attitude and genuine investment in our students have made a tremendous difference in their lives. Having been named SFCC’s Staff Member of the Year, it is wonderful to see Brandon’s dedication recognized at the state level.”
The Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) is an institutional membership organization representing Missouri's 12 community colleges and their thousands of faculty, staff, students and administrators. MCCA provides services in advocacy, education, information and networking to support Missouri's community college system.