Mid Michigan College President, Dr. Christine Hammond, recently received the Patriot Award from the Employer Support of Guard and Reserve (ESGR). ESGR was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and foster understanding between service members and their civilian employers.
The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide-range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed.
Dr. Hammond was nominated for the award by Lori Fassett Associate Vice President of Human Resources at Mid and also a current Captain in the Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG). The nomination was inspired by Dr. Hammond's support of employees active within the MIARNG.
“Dr. Hammond truly understands the challenges and benefits of employing a citizen soldier. Within the current calendar year I have been away from the College for a total of 12-weeks for MIARNG duties. Dr. Hammond always supports my MIARNG leaves of absence and has even went so far as to personally offer my husband help in caring for our 4 year old son,” shared Fassett.
Dr. Hammond has also assisted and supported staff members in obtaining recognition for Mid Michigan College from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA). The College was recognized as a Military Friendly Employer and Military Friendly College for the past several years. MVAA recognizes employers that commit to military veteran recruitment, training, and retention practices.
“These MVAA achievements, along with President Hammond’s award, demonstrate Mid’s ongoing commitment to veteran and active service members. From students to employees, Mid stands tall as an organization that offers support and resources for military service members,” noted Fassett.
Peter Pallas from the ESGR assisted in the presentation of the award.
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