(MARSHALL, Texas) – Kadie Svrcek, the statewide senior director of college pathways and enrichment for Texas State Technical College, is the Marshall campus recipient of this year’s Chancellor’s Cornerstone Award.
“I was kind of in shock, but also very humbled that the work that I do is seen by others in the college and that the college gives everyone an opportunity to be recognized in that kind of way,” the Diana resident said.
Since 2001, the award has honored employees who steadfastly demonstrate the college’s core values of accountability, excellence, integrity, and service. Recipients of this award are nominated by their fellow employees.
“A cornerstone is an essential component in the foundation of a building,” said Mike Reeser, TSTC’s chancellor and CEO. “Similarly, our cornerstone principles are what make us strong as an organization. Without these core values and the teammates who embody them every day, we simply would not be the same.”
Svrcek went back to school for her bachelor’s degree in social sciences at Washington State University after becoming a mother and developed an interest in working in higher education while researching TSTC and its mission. She advanced from being hired as a dual enrollment recruitment representative for the Marshall campus to her current position in just six years.
“I would rather do something that actually puts kids to work than go work at a university,” Svrcek said. “At first, I was helping students find opportunities, and now I have an opportunity to really develop staff and also external partners and their knowledge of CTE (career and technical education programs).”
Svrcek said her biggest inspiration is the ability TSTC has to change students’ lives, especially nontraditional students like her. Though she is not sure who nominated her for the award, she said she wants to thank them, and that it is an honor to work for such great students and staff.
“If I hadn’t been given the opportunity that I was with no background in advising, then I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Svrcek said. “I’m happy with the college, I love the mission that we do, and I love being able to have a job that I know is (leading) someone in a positive direction.”
Nathan Cleveland, the associate provost at TSTC’s Marshall campus, said Svrcek exemplifies the spirit of the award thanks to her friendly demeanor and unwavering dedication.
“Her consistent high quality work, proactive initiative, and dependable leadership is demonstrated through every project she undertakes,” Cleveland said. “Her ability to lead by example while uplifting those around her creates a collaborative and positive environment that drives team success.”
For more information, go to tstc.edu.