The California Community Colleges Board of Governors honored five classified professionals, who provide outstanding service supporting students, with the 2023 Classified Employee of the Year Award. Three of this year’s recipients are CSEA members.

“Our classified staff plays a critical role in our system and most importantly in the success of our students,” said Board of Governors President Amy M. Costa “Today we honored several outstanding employees representative of those throughout the state working every day to assist and support our students.”

Nominated by their colleagues and endorsed by the local board of trustees, winners of this award are selected by representatives from the Board of Governors, the Consultation Council and the Chancellor's Office based on their commitment to the Vision for Success, the mission of community colleges and their professional standards.

“We celebrate five talented professionals whose work impacts the lives of students through their service to our students and their local community,” said Interim Chancellor Daisy Gonzales, PhD. “Classified professionals are an integral part of our campuses and our system. On behalf of the California Community Colleges, we thank all classified professionals for their contributions and service.”

Frederick Bobola, College of the Canyons
Santa Clarita CCD Chapter 725

Frederick Bobola knows first-hand the power of attending a California community college. A self-proclaimed student who wasn’t focused much on school, he found his way while attending College of the Canyons. After graduating from UCLA and working in the private sector, Bobola fulfilled his dream of working in higher education by returning to COC, where he has served as instructional coordinator for English, Social Behavioral Sciences, Humanities and Modern Languages for The Learning Center. Since being in this role, Bobola has also served on the executive board for the Classified Senate. Bobola is dedicated to serving students from diverse backgrounds of all ages to help them reach their higher educational goals. In addition to his specialist role, Bobola also serves as the college’s Esports club advisor.

Eleanor ‘Nori’ Bambusch, College of the Desert
College of the Desert Chapter 407

Eleanor ‘Nori’ Bambusch has long provided prolific support throughout the College of the Desert community. For 35 years, Bambusch has made a profound impact on students, staff and faculty alike while serving as the administrative assistant for the School of Applied Sciences and Business. Among her many contributions is managing and administering the New Horizons Book Loan Programing, providing students who receive the California Community College Promise Grant the opportunity to receive free textbooks each semester. Colleagues say Bambusch is the personification of professionalism and embodies the college’s goal of being a student-centered college by being committed to the growth of everyone around her. In addition to her position at the college, Bambusch is a dedicated volunteer and respected member of the community.

Joan Jarrett, Feather River College
Plumas/Feather River Chapter 712

Joan Jarrett has served Feather River College for the past 15 years. Throughout this time and through multiple roles, Jarrett has streamlined the college’s efforts to better support students through the learning experience. Her myriad efforts have advanced the college’s work in reducing equity gaps, especially for students who are at risk of falling off their educational plans and providing them with the support and confidence they need to succeed. In her current role as program coordinator of the Instructional Resource Center, Jarrett strives to build a community where students can grow academically and personally. Colleagues say Jarrett is equally devoted to her co-workers, advocating for regular professional development, particularly focusing on DEIA activities and promoting other strategies to improve student success outcomes.

Each recipient of the Classified Employee of the Year Award will receive a $750 cash award and a commemorative plaque.