Odessa Kawai named Exemplary Staff Award Winner

Olympic College employees are known for their dedication to supporting students and often times go above and beyond the call of duty. Basic Food, Employment & Training Program Specialist Odessa Kawai is a prime example. She was recently named an Exemplary Staff by Staff Training for Technical and Community Colleges (STTACC).

Odessa was nominated by Olympic College Multicultural Services Supervisor Jodie Collins. Jodie cited several examples of Odessa’s commitment during the pandemic, including her work with a formerly incarcerated student who had numerous barriers to overcome before enrolling at the college. Odessa helped this person complete all of the admissions steps, filing for financial aid, textbook assistance, and grants. She also took the time to address some of the student’s needs outside of school. As a result, this student made the Dean’s list for Winter Term, and was on track to do the same for Spring.

Odessa contributes to the college in other ways. She served as a co-advisor for the Asian Pacific Islander Club – Island Roots, in addition to serving on various hiring committees and the annual employee awards committee. She also volunteers to work the college’s booth at community events such as the Juneteenth celebration at Evergreen Park in Bremerton.

In March 2020, as the college quickly transitioned to remote services and instruction, Odessa was an early adopter, ready and willing to do her part and more. She volunteered to staff the Student Services Zoom Virtual Office several days a week and continues to staff our virtual and in-person offices.

“I am honored and humbled my peer took the time to nominate me for the Classified Staff Exemplary award,” she said. “I am excited to be on the leadership committee next year with my Olympic College peers.”

Olympic College will be well represented on STTACC this year. Assistant Athletic Director Jaymie Cox-Garcia will serve as President, Odessa the Secretary, and Danessa Grey the Region E Coordinator. To learn more about this organization, visit the STTACC website.

Beyond supporting the mission of Olympic College, she supports the people. The pandemic has been difficult for us all, and her compassion and understanding have provided strength to those who’ve needed it. Olympic College strives to foster a welcome environment, where students from all backgrounds can achieve their goals. Odessa embodies that mission.

To find out more about the work Odessa does at Olympic College, check out the Basic Food Employment and Training program webpage.