Wendell Poindexter is devoted to serving the students of Frederick Community College (FCC). For more than 30 years, his impact has been realized through the enthusiastic instruction and sincere encouragement he offers. The passion he shares with his students is visible through the poignant artwork that lines the walls of the FCC art gallery.

Poindexter is proud of not only the artwork, but the growth and dedication of the artists under his guidance. He has learned that becoming an artist is more than developing the skill to draw, paint, or sculpt. He shares with students the importance of learning not to just look, but to see.

The pride and accomplishment he feels when his students have a breakthrough moment- when they finally grasp a difficult concept or technique he has been demonstrating- stay with him long after they pass through his studio door.

Anyone who has enjoyed a meal at 200 Monroe restaurant has experienced first-hand the passion for food, cooking, and teaching that Elizabeth DeRose enthusiastically shares with her students and community. As the Hospitality, Culinary & Tourism Institute (HCTI) manager at Frederick Community College (FCC), she approaches the role with commitment and creativity.

DeRose knows the significance of pursuing your dreams, and finds great satisfaction in seeing students do the same. Through her work on curriculum development, recruitment, career mentoring, internship placement, and working with community business partners, she has strengthened the HCTI program and made a lasting impression in Frederick County.

DeRose’s tremendous talent and appreciation for hospitality is evident as she introduces students to the field and helps them develop into professionals. Her greatest enjoyment is in witnessing students’ growth as they learn to follow their passion in pursuit of a rewarding career.

When students walk into the Center for Student Engagement at Frederick Community College (FCC), chances are they will be greeted by the smell of popcorn and a jovial smile from executive director Jeanni Winston-Muir. Having served FCC for more than 30 years, Winston-Muir exudes a warmth and compassion that echoes her dedication to providing students with opportunities for involvement and personal development.

The programs, activities, and experiences that Winston-Muir and her staff design and implement support student learning, leadership, volunteer service, and civic engagement. These experiences help students develop confidence and expertise, and give Winston-Muir the gratification of knowing she is achieving her mission.

Her greatest aspiration is in engaging students to think about themselves and the world in new ways. Winston-Muir understands the importance of meeting students where they are and strives to offer services and support that best enable them to make their goals a reality.

Dr. Brian Stipelman communicates with a cerebral poise and casual insight that makes talking with him naturally comfortable. Being knowledgeable, helpful, and approachable allows him to connect with the students and faculty he supports.
 
His ability to find and celebrate the good in things shows with a smile that’s as authentic as the pop-culture and historical memorabilia that adorns his office. It’s intriguing and inviting, much like Dr. Stipelman.
 
As dean, Dr. Stipelman oversees the Liberal Arts and academic programs to facilitate quality, innovative teaching and learning. His belief in people fosters collaborative solutions that advance teaching and learning possibilities.
 
Dr. Stipelman’s passion for student success fuels his ongoing pursuit of ways to make learning more accessible for everyone. He values opportunity for all. Because, as his favorite band Pearl Jam sings, “The smallest oceans still get big, big waves.”

Deborah Powell has a resolute understanding that the most important thing she can do for students is help them stay in school and advance their education. Vitally aware of the diverse needs of those she serves at Frederick Community College (FCC), Powell shows compassion and creativity when it comes to achieving this goal.
 
As executive director of the FCC Foundation, a philanthropic group that promotes access to higher education by providing scholarships for eligible students, Powell’s connection with community members and local businesses and organizations is authentic and comes naturally.
Through these relationships, she and her staff, with the support of a talented board of directors, are able to raise funds to provide financial assistance so all students can succeed.
 
This steadfast commitment to helping students is rewarded by the support the FCC Foundation receives from the community, and the tremendous impact it has on students and their families.