Washington County Community College Recognizes 2026 Meritorious Award Recipients

CALAIS, ME – Washington County Community College (WCCC) proudly recognized three outstanding members of its community during the Maine Community College System’s annual Dirigo Conference held June 10–11. Each year, the Meritorious Awards honor faculty and staff who exemplify excellence, dedication, and service in advancing the mission of both the college and the Maine Community College System.

The 2026 WCCC Meritorious Award recipients, Scott Wheelock, Dodie Emerson, and Ashley MacDonald, were nominated by their fellow faculty and staff in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the college community. Following the nomination process, President Susan Mingo selected this year’s recipients. The awards were presented during the Dirigo Conference by Dr. Tyler Stoldt, Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Services, on behalf of President Mingo and the entire WCCC faculty, staff, and student body.

Scott Wheelock, Welding Technology Instructor, was recognized for his excellence in teaching, mentorship, and student support. Wheelock has built a reputation for creating a learning environment where students feel respected, motivated, and empowered to succeed. His commitment extends well beyond the classroom as he actively recruits future students, mentors current students, and assists graduates in securing employment within the skilled trades. The lasting impact he has made on students is evident through the many testimonials shared by graduates in the college’s Welding Technology program video, where nearly every student speaks to the positive influence he has had on their educational journey and career aspirations. His dedication to personalized student success exemplifies the mission of WCCC.

Dodie Emerson, an adjunct instructor with WCCC’s Workforce Development Division, was honored for her outstanding commitment to student success and excellence in online teaching. For the past three years, Emerson has taught courses in the college’s Educational Technician and Substance Use and Recovery pathways, creating engaging asynchronous learning experiences that keep students connected and motivated. She is known for her responsiveness, compassion, and ability to support students balancing education with work and family responsibilities. By combining high academic expectations with genuine empathy and encouragement, she helps students build confidence and achieve their educational goals. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Emerson has served on the WCCC President’s Advisory Council for the past seven years, providing valuable guidance and perspective to the college. A lifelong resident of Washington County, she continually partners with WCCC on numerous initiatives that strengthen educational opportunities and support student success throughout the region. Her ongoing dedication to students, the college, and the community exemplifies the spirit of the Meritorious Award.

Ashley MacDonald, Manager of Financial Services, received the Meritorious Award in recognition of nearly 15 years of exceptional service to WCCC. Throughout her tenure, MacDonald has demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to both students and colleagues. She has played a critical role in supporting the college through complex financial initiatives while ensuring the seamless operation of essential business and payroll functions. During her time at WCCC, she earned her Master of Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. Beyond campus, MacDonald is an active member of the Calais community, volunteering her time with the St. Croix Country Club and Calais Little League. Her attention to detail, collaborative approach, dedication to student success, and commitment to her community have made her an invaluable member of the WCCC team.

WCCC congratulates Scott Wheelock, Dodie Emerson, and Ashley MacDonald on this well-deserved recognition and thanks them for the lasting contributions they make to the success of our students, the strength of our college community, and the mission of the College and Maine Community College System.