Lone Star College-CyFair is honoring five employees who are described as innovative, diligent, friendly, helpful risk takers, leaders and advocates.
Chosen as this year’s Staff Excellence Award winners, Joshua Estrada, Roy Holland, Allison Kostrzynski, Brenda Piatiak and Sandra Young are all being recognized this spring for the impact they’ve made across campus.
Serving as Fine Arts Coordinator since November 2017, Estrada has not only paid close attention to the department’s needs, but diligently develops relationships with students as well as community members.
“I love discussing all aspects of the arts with our students and engaging our community to cultivate an artistic hub that highlights our students’ talents,” he said. “My hope is that my passion for the arts can influence the work I do alongside colleagues whom I respect and are making things happen on our campus.”
Holland began at LSC-CyFair in 2013 as a weekend employee who helped pressure washed campus grounds. This Facilities Department team player, who is always smiling, laughing and friendly with everyone, became a full-time custodian in 2014. He takes great pride in making sure campus buildings are kept clean for students, employees and visitors.
“This honor means a lot to me because it lets me know that my work is being noticed and that's wonderful,” Holland said. “What I enjoy most about my job is working with a great group of co-workers who have each other’s back in achieving our goals each day. It’s the Lone Star way.”
Kostrzynski is ready to assist whenever needed and ensures the Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) technology is being used in the most innovative ways possible. As a part-time coordinator in the TLC since 2015, Kostrzynski adds to the TLC team’s expertise in providing service and support to faculty and staff alike.
“It is always rewarding to hear you have made an impact on a colleague's day-to-day routine, whether it be by providing the technology they need for their work or by teaching them a new skill,” she said.
Piatiak has been LSC-CyFair’s Evening and Weekend College Program Manager in Academic Affairs since 2012. She continually advocates for her area and team, who work hard to positively impact those whom they serve day and night.
“I am grateful to work with such a fun, caring, motivated group,” she said. “I enjoy collaborating with coworkers to create something meaningful and special for our students, faculty, and staff as we strive to provide the best customer service and support we can.”
Described as a natural leader unafraid to take risks, Young has worked the front lines helping students as an academic advisor since October 2017. She spent years changing majors, transferring to 7 different colleges and universities, navigating the GI Bill system, and dealing with personal issues, before earning two degrees and finding her vocation.
“My job as an advisor allows me to use what I learned firsthand as a student to help countless others in their quest for education,” she said. “All of my previous personal struggles gave me the tools and resources I still use today to help all my students find their own ways.”
These employees were also recognized again for their dedication at a system event in February.
Late Start spring semester classes at LSC-CyFair are available. For information go to LoneStar.edu/late-start.
