2 at Clark State receive community college Women Under 40 recognition

Two staff members at Clark State Community College have been named members of the Women Under 40, class of 2020 by the Board of Directors of the American Association for Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC), according to a release from the school.

Each year the AAWCC recognizes women who are making a difference for their college and community. The two Clark State staffers are Antoinette (Toni) Yancey and Taylor Roberts.

Yancey has been with Clark State for nine years and is a success coach.

“I feel honored to receive an award such as this,” Yancey said. “The students drive my success. I feel that seeing them succeed and knowing that I played a part in that makes me feel that I have succeeded.”

Yancey began her college career as a work-study student and was hired after graduation before earning her bachelor and master’s degrees.

“Toni Yancey is an asset to our team,” President Dr. Jo Alice Blondin said. “She is a Clark State graduate and for that reason, she is especially relatable to the students. She is an exceptional advisor and mentor for students.”

READ: Man pleads not guilty to robbing Springfield Subway with fake gun

Yancey is also the student-athlete advisor, an adjunct instructor in the management program and has served on Staff Senate for several years.

“Toni is a team player and a budding leader who places the needs of students and their well-being above all,” Blondin said. “Students constantly seek her advice for academic, career and sometimes personal guidance. She always takes the time to ensure they have her full attention. She receives recognition from students, faculty and staff on a regular basis.”

Roberts was a grants writer before being promoted to grants coordinator in 2019.

“I am honored to be nominated and to receive this award,” Roberts said. “I love Clark State and the overall mission of access and equity of community colleges, and it is wonderful to be recognized in a field about which I am so passionate.”

READ: STEM Academy in Springfield had system in place for virtual education before closure

Roberts is a mentor in the Clark State Scholars program and on the Warder Literacy Board. She is pursing her Master of Science in Education degree at the University of Dayton.

“My success is driven by a passion for education and student success, rooted in a belief that everyone deserves access to a high-quality education that can lead to a better future for themselves and their family,” Roberts said. “My goal is to continue learning about myself and the best way I can be of service to Clark State and community colleges as a whole.”

Roberts has also improved Clark State’s grant process and has implemented improved grant reporting policies and procedures.

“Taylor is passionate about student success and works to eliminate barriers and increase resources for our students, faculty and staff,” said Blondin. “In her three years at Clark State, she has secured $2,228,062.00 in grant funding for the college. Taylor is a dedicated team member who works across the organization to increase effectiveness and improve outcomes.”

About the Author