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2024 C4 Award Winners (Education)

The Clinton County Community Champions (C4) Awards began in 2020 to honor service and leadership during the pandemic. The event began as a virtual ceremony and has since expanded to be held at the Murphy Theatre. This year, there were 119 nominations for 75 individuals in 7 categories. The winners are chosen based on their commitment to community through a special project or ongoing activities, unselfish leadership and service to others, and an inspiration to others. They are selected by a panel of judges from the Board of the Chamber of Commerce and the Board of the Convention and Visitors Bureau.


Tate Cockerill, Corey's husband, accepted on behalf of Corey.
Tate Cockerill, Corey's husband, accepted on behalf of Corey.

Corey Cockerill

Nominated for: Citizen, Education                

Nominated by: Anonymous, Eric McLaughlin

Corey’s nominator(s) stated:

“Doctor Corey Cockerill is not only an incredible leader in her role as president of Wilmington College, she is a skilled educator, spreading vitality and enthusiasm and a passion for change…In addition to advocating for the college in an external capacity, Corey is deeply involved in the lives of students and their campus activities…Corey lives her life in an interruptible way. While busy, she constantly makes time outside of her schedule to converse with students and learn ways to improve and grow their experience…She often says, “the medium is the message.” By this she means that how a message is presented is how people will accept it. Corey’s message is dedication and passion for Wilmington College and her medium is in showing up, always taking photos, getting to know students, continuing to connect with alumni, and promoting community relations… An institution is only as strong as its leadership, and Wilmington College will stand the test of time under Corey Cockerill…”


“…Her interest in students, passion for the college and community, and being genuinely interested in the well being of others makes this a truly remarkable place to work, live, and learn. Her ability to cast a compelling vision-and her integral work on the key pillars of our strategic plan are truly helping Wilmington College better support our community and expand our impact to better serve learners in all chapters of their lives. She has already led our institution into deeper and broader collaborations with many businesses and organizations in and surrounding Clinton County. As a farmer, parent, educator, and leader her perspective is just what this college and county needs to stay grounded in reality and grow into our potential.”


“… What's most admirable about Corey is that she never lost sight of the importance of the College's role in its local and regional community, baking community involvement and partnerships into the strategic plan. In fact, she is adamant that the College's health is dependent on the health of the larger community. Her strategic plan has been shared with presidents at other colleges as a model, which also gives recognition to the good work being done in Clinton County. We see a renewed hope and energy in our interactions with outside partners and that is thanks to Corey's passion for where she works and lives…”

 

Joshua Wolfe
Joshua Wolfe

Joshua Wolfe, Laurel Oaks Career Campus

Nominated for: Education      

Nominated by: Jamie Roe, Clinton County Board of DD

Joshua’s nominator(s) stated:

“… Mr. Wolfe not only teaches welding  but he inspires communities inside and outside of the classroom to embrace integration with positivity.  During this school year Mr. Wolfe has a student in his lab with limited mobility in his left arm…When Mr. Wolfe was contacted about this particular student…his response to the family was positive and welcoming…Mr. Wolfe having high expectations and assuming ability rather than disability sought support from the community at large for a solution to support his student’s growth…As a result, he was put in touch with a company who not only made a mitt [but] they also created a vest that would physically support the student’s arm so he could steady the electrode with greater stability. In the update video with a catch of pride Mr. Wolfe shares, ‘His welds look phenomenal!  I can tell his confidence had a huge boost when he walked out of his welding booth and started walking up to my podium with a giant smile on his face.’  It is with sincerest thanks that we nominate Mr. Wolfe… not only for having high standards for all students and supporting a student in his classroom, but for empowering all to embrace a community change that encourages integration and positive relationships committed to acceptance.”


Randy Sarvis
Randy Sarvis

Randy Sarvis

Nominated for: Education, Non-Profit

Nominated by: Anonymous

Randy’s nominator(s) stated:

“… Since joining the College in 1995…, Randy has tirelessly worked to elevate the College’s reputation through innovative marketing, thoughtful storytelling, and a deep commitment to its mission…Randy is not just a behind-the-scenes leader; he is omnipresent. He shows up to every event, every match, every game, every late-night breakfast, every theatre production, every symposium, and every special occasion. He is the living embodiment of Wilmington College’s community spirit, ensuring that every moment is captured, celebrated, and shared. His presence is a testament to his commitment—not just to the job, but to the people and the stories that define the College. One of Randy’s most notable achievements is his role as managing editor of The LINK, Wilmington College’s alumni magazine. Over the years, he has edited and produced more than 60 issues, serving as the primary writer and photographer. His ability to weave compelling narratives has garnered national recognition…For nearly three decades, Randy Sarvis has been the heart and voice of Wilmington College. His tireless work ethic has left an indelible mark on the institution, its students, and its alumni…”


Troy Diels
Troy Diels

Troy Diels, Wilmington High School

Nominated for: Education

Nominated by: Anonymous

Troy’s nominator(s) stated:

“… Behind the scenes at Wilmington High School (and sometimes reluctantly in front of it), Troy Diels is the catalyst behind many of the changes for the athletics department over the near-decade he has served as Athletic Director. Fellow staff members, coaches, and parents agree that Troy has transformed the WHS athletic department since the beginning of his tenure [calling him the] “best athletic director I have ever worked with.” …Troy’s promotion of WHS athletes is part of what sets him apart, whether is through social media or by promoting academic achievement with a breakfast for the team with the highest GPA in each athletic season…Since Troy has become athletic director, WHS has celebrated playoff wins for several different sports, instituted the State Send-Off…, and had several individuals and teams finishing in the top ten state-wide from basketball to bowling and wrestling to track. These successes happen because Troy dedicates so much time to ensuring that coaches are prepared and supported, students have enjoyable and educational experiences and an approachable athletic director, and gameday events are high-quality and professional. He pushes our students to do their best in the classroom and on the field and encourages coaches to do the same. When he is outside on a ninety-degree fall day making sure the facilities are ready, we can all be assured that he expects nothing less from himself…”

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