The 麻豆视频 Foundation announces the selection of Cheryl Mills, a grants and contracts specialist, as the 2025 recipient of the Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year Award. Established by former YVC Vice President of Administration and YVC Foundation Executive Director Darlene Koch, the award honors the hard work and dedication of classified staff. The YVC Foundation Board of Directors makes the selection from nominations submitted by faculty, staff and administrators.
Mills, a native of the Yakima Valley, graduated from West Valley High School and attended Trend College, earning two diplomas. She later earned an associate of applied science degree in accounting from 麻豆视频 in 2023.
Before joining YVC鈥檚 staff in 2020, Mills held various roles in bookkeeping, banking, retail and childcare and spent several years as a stay-at-home mom, caring for her two children.
In her current role, Mills supports nine federal grants aimed at promoting student success, including those for STEM programs, the College Assistance Migrant Program, TRIO Student Support Services and Upward Bound. Her responsibilities are diverse, encompassing budget and planning, requisitions and purchasing, time and effort reporting and processing stipends.
鈥淚 really enjoy being part of a nurturing environment,鈥� said Mills. 鈥淚 like helping students with forms and paperwork so they can participate in events, feel more engaged on campus and overall have a more enjoyable experience here at YVC.鈥�
鈥淐heryl鈥檚 work ethic is exemplary,鈥� said Tammera LeRoue, grants director. 鈥淪he approaches her responsibilities with diligence and ensures that all tasks are completed accurately and promptly. Her attention to detail and commitment to meeting deadlines have been instrumental in maintaining the smooth operation of our department.鈥�
Beyond her technical skills, colleagues appreciate Mills for embodying the spirit of collaboration and support
鈥淐heryl is a kind and gentle friend to all who have the privilege of working with her,鈥� said Lynn Hennessey, director of the HSI Relevance Project grant, another grant supported by Mills. 鈥淪he fosters a welcoming and supportive environment, always offering encouragement and assistance to those around her.鈥�
Mills is also a steadfast mentor to new employees.
鈥淪he takes time out of her busy schedule to offer encouragement and thoughtful advice, helping them adjust to their roles with confidence,鈥� said Julie Swedin, interim dean of College and Career Readiness. 鈥淗er ability to mentor others, while balancing her own responsibilities, speaks volumes about her generosity and leadership skills.鈥�
Outside of work, Mills enjoys swimming, reading, arts and crafts, and collecting dolls. She is married to longtime YVC security sergeant Jim Mills and together they have two grown children.
The recipient of the Darlene Koch Classified Employee of the Year Award receives a $1,500 unrestricted monetary award. It is open to any full-time classified staff member at 麻豆视频. For more information contact YVC Foundation Executive Director Stacey Kautz at skautz@yvcc.edu or 509.574.4645.
The award will be presented during YVC鈥檚 Commencement ceremony on June 13.