2014 Puget Sound Energy Distinguished Faculty Award

Lara Cooper, an instructor in Clover Park Technical College's Nursing Program, received the 2014 Puget Sound Energy Distinguished Faculty Award. Cooper received the award from Hans Herrmann, community engagement manager at PSE, at an all-faculty meeting Aug. 6 in the Rotunda.

The annual award recognizes a CPTC faculty member who demonstrates distinguished service to technical education through their teaching and professional, campus or community involvement. Cooper receives a $2,000 monetary award to be used for the Nursing Program or for professional development activities.

Cooper became a Licensed Practical Nurse instructor in 2009. She is working toward a master's degree in nursing and will teach in the Registered Nurse Program as well.

When Myra Griffin first started her position as Nursing Program director, Cooper offered a creative approach to nursing education by taking CPTC's Nursing students to the art museum.

"Lara explained her rationale of how it helps the students pay attention to detail; to look at things in a different way," Griffin said. "I was able to accompany the students last year on this trip and it was truly amazing to see the transformation of the students in that environment."

CPTC faculty, student body, classified, maintenance/custodial or administrative staff were eligible to nominate candidates. A selection committee of one faculty member, one administrator and two Foundation Board members reviewed, rated and ranked the nominations based on the award's criteria and made their recommendations to the Foundation executive director.

Cooper was presented with a plaque and flowers from Debbie Ranniger, executive director for Resource Development and the Foundation. Cooper's family also surprised her with flowers.