Dianna Carpenter may not be quick to accept praise for a job well done, but when you ask her what she likes best about working at MCC, she's got a fast and enthusiastic answer.
"I love making a difference in a student's life," she says. "Creating opportunities for students by helping them get on track with their financing for college - that's why I'm here."
Carpenter, an account collections specialist in student payment services, is the
Administrative Center's employee of the month for January. Now beginning her eighth year at MCC, she works with students who have defaulted - or are at risk of defaulting - on their financial aid, loans or payment plans. She finds satisfaction in helping students
understand their options and providing guidance to get them back on track with their finances so they can continue attending MCC.
Though Carpenter has been working in education for 17 years, her current role is a lot different from her previous job, where she worked one-on-one with special needs students in the Lee's Summit School District.
"I sometimes miss having that kind of direct contact with students, but in my role at MCC I do still get to connect with students and offer them the resources they need to succeed," says Carpenter. "I have a passion for education and I think customer service is really important in my role and throughout the college."
That commitment to student success and satisfaction is evident to her peers.
"She is always willing to help, whether it is a co-worker or a student," said a colleague who nominated her for the employee of the month award. "She always has a smile and a positive outlook and she will go the extra mile it sometimes takes to resolve a problem. MCC is lucky to have an employee like her!"
