2024 Otero College Employees of the Year

Otero College is pleased to announce the faculty and staff members who have been named Employees of the Year for 2024. There are four categories of employees that are recognized each year for their outstanding service and dedication to the college. Those categories are Faculty, Adjunct Instructor, Classified and Administrative/Professional Technical.

Faculty of the Year: Anna Matejcek

Anna Matejcek, Art Faculty, is a dedicated and talented member of campus and is our Faculty of the Year. Anna is renowned for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that sparks her students’ interest in art and encourages them to express their creativity. Her innovative teaching techniques empower students to think outside the box and tap into their unique imagination.

This past semester, Anna’s 3D class was bustling with exciting projects, showcasing her students’ artistic talents. Her classes are a safe space where students feel comfortable being themselves, and her interactions with them demonstrate her genuine commitment to their growth and well-being.

Beyond her exceptional teaching skills, Anna is also an active member of the Faculty Senate, serving as Vice Chair. She is also involved in several student organizations, including the Art Club and Queer Collective, and has undertaken numerous community initiatives. One notable example is her success with the Museum on Mainstreet Smithsonian Exhibit.

Anna’s tireless efforts and selfless dedication to her students, the college, and the community at large have earned her this well-deserved recognition. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for art education have made a profound impact on our institution and community.

Adjunct Instructor of the Year: Fred Boettcher

Fred Boettcher has been named our Adjunct Instructor of the Year. He is an exceptional individual who has made a lasting impact on our college community. Despite being retired, Fred continues to be an integral part of our institution, serving as our CFAC representative.

Fred’s teaching approach is characterized by innovative techniques, such as incorporating virtual reality into his online courses. His creative methods have been particularly effective in helping students retain information, and he has recently utilized crossword puzzles to reinforce learning in his classes.

Students thoroughly enjoy Fred’s classes, not only because of his engaging teaching style but also because of his insightful commentary, which makes complex topics entertaining and accessible. His commitment to excellence and dedication to his students, colleagues, and the community at large are truly exemplary.

Throughout his tenure, Fred has been a consummate professional, consistently demonstrating a deep understanding of his subject matter and a passion for sharing his expertise with others. As an integral part of our puzzle, his contributions to our college community are immeasurable, and we are grateful for the many ways he has made a positive impact.

Classified Employee of the Year: Ernest Martinez

Ernie Martinez is our Classified Employee of the Year, a dedicated and hardworking individual who has made a significant impact on our institution. Ernie takes pride in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of his assigned areas, ensuring that coaches and athletes have a seamless experience before and after games. His attention to detail and commitment to excellence are evident in his thorough cleaning of the facilities, and his years of experience (23) have made him a valuable asset to our team.

Ernie’s positive relationships with athletes, coaches, and community members are a testament to his exceptional work ethic and warm demeanor. The boys’ basketball team looks forward to greeting him with fist bumps before every home game, and he jokingly tells them that he taught them their moves. The coaches appreciate his friendly banter and pleasant conversations, and he is known for shaking hands and chatting with numerous public attendees at games.

Ernie is a team player; he ensures that every building is well-maintained, and the crew remains cohesive when other workers are out. His dedication to his role was praised by the custodial crew. Ernie’s selflessness, expertise, and friendly nature make him an invaluable part of our team.

Administrative/Professional Technical Employee of the Year: Vince Fraker

Vince Fraker was this year’s APT Employee of the Year. Vince is a dedicated and versatile professional who has made a significant impact on our institution. As the Law Enforcement Academy Director and Department Chair for Career and Technical Education programs, Vince demonstrates his commitment to excellence by overseeing multiple programs, including Agriculture, Cosmetology, Welding, and Construction Trades.

He collaborates with faculty, develops program curriculum, secures resources, and implements strategies to meet grant deliverables, showcasing his ability to lead and innovate. Vince’s genuine concern for students’ well-being creates a positive learning environment. He prioritizes student needs, providing guidance, advocacy, and support to ensure their success. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration and open communication, valuing the input of staff and faculty to address concerns, implement improvements, and foster a sense of teamwork.

In addition to his administrative roles, Vince is an active member of the CARE Team and serves as Otero’s Emergency Management Coordinator. His strong leadership skills, and proactive approach reflect his deep commitment to the welfare of students, faculty, and staff.

Despite facing challenges that would test the resolve of many, Vince remains a pillar of strength and resilience. His ability to persist and support others during difficult times speaks volumes about his character and dedication. Vince’s unwavering commitment to his responsibilities and his willingness to support others in their times of need make him an exemplary role model and leader on campus.

There were several nominations this year. Employees are nominated by their supervisor, or in certain groups by their peers and then voted on by their peers. To even be nominated is a tremendous honor. Those that were nominated for Faculty of the Year were: Lisa Bamber, Mark Korbitz, and Heather Pidcock-Reed. For Adjunct Instructor of the Year: Darlene Blackford and M.J. Romano. For Classified Employee of the Year: Misty Freidenberger, Jacob Liming, and Justin Miell. For Administrative/Professional Technical Employee of the Year: Joseph Eubank, Antonio Nash, Cathy Parker, and Jane Wheeler.

In addition to being recognized at Otero, each of the honorees were recognized at a special awards ceremony in April, hosted by the Colorado Community College System in Denver.