ESCANABA — Bay College has honored Renae Highum with its Outstanding Staff Award. Highum works in the Student Services Department for the admissions office as the enrollment facilitator and has been employed with Bay College since 2000. She started her career at Bay College as the part-time career services assistant. in 2002, she became the administrative assistant for the director of admissions. In 2007, her position was changed to an enrollment facilitator role to best serve our student population. Hers education includes a certificate in Computer Operations from South Central College-Minnesota and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Accounting/Computer Specialist from Bay College.

Highum was selected for not only her extensive knowledge of the intricacies of admissions, but for her respect and enthusiasm toward colleagues, students, and community members.

Her nominator states, “Renae is always willing to help — and does so with kindness and patience no matter how many times a day I call. She exemplifies our “students first” motto, but also makes sure that her colleagues are taken care of. She always has a smile and a friendly word for everyone she sees.”

As an enrollment facilitator, she provides a critical link between constituents and Bay College by making referrals to academic divisions, advisors, instructional staff, and other Bay College staff members.

“Renae is an absolute gem. She is organized, reliable, and conscientious; but, most importantly, she is a passionate champion for each of our students.,” said Jessica LaMarch, director of admissions.

When asked why she chose to work for Bay College,

Jessica LaMarch, Director of Admissions, enthused, explained, “I chose Bay because I had just graduated from Bay in the Accounting/Computer Science program and I wanted to be a part of what was happening at Bay College…changing lives. I found I have gained self-confidence, new skills, friends and a family while working at Bay College. Also, the biggest reward is when a student I have worked with through Admissions walks across the stage 2-3 years later. Knowing I may have played a small part in helping them change their lives.”

Visit the website www.baycollege.edu/awards to watch a short video of Jessica LaMarch, Director of Admissions, presenting the Outstanding Staff Award to Renae Highum along with her acceptance speech.

Any Bay College employee, Board member, student, alumni, or community member may nominate a full-time or regular part-time exempt or non-exempt employee for the Bay College Outstanding Staff Award. These individuals must have completed three years of employment at Bay College. Nominees are judged by their job knowledge; respect and enthusiasm toward colleagues, students, and community members; creating a positive influence within the work environment; collaboratively working with colleagues and staff.