McHenry resident Mike Vivona receives top education award
Each year, the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) formally recognizes the success and significant achievements of ACCSC-accredited institutions, and pays tribute to several outstanding, dedicated individuals.
Michael Vivona, local marketing manger for Universal Technical Institute's Lisle campus, was named first-runner up for the 2014 Commitment to Education Award.
Vivona began working as an instructor at UTI in 2004 and has since become a vital member of the campus and organization. He was promoted to local marketing manager for the campus because of his dedication to students and his passion for the career training UTI provides. In his current role, Mike travels across the Midwest to spread the message of how UTI changes lives and builds grassroots community connections on behalf of the UTI campus.
"Mike, through his tireless work ethic, has helped cultivate relationships in our regional community that enrich our campus experience for students and faculty alike," said campus president Julie Mueller. "It is hard to imagine our campus without the passionate leadership Mike provides. His commitment to our campus inspires us all to provide our students with an outstanding educational opportunity that will lead to a meaningful career in the industry."
The Commitment to Education Award is designed to recognize the outstanding efforts of a member of an ACCSC-accredited school's staff who is providing outstanding contributions in support of the school's mission, its students, and the community that it serves. The Commission considered many factors, including efforts put forth on behalf of students to improve the quality of education the school and the facilitation of partnerships within the employment community on behalf of students and graduates.
"I've been fortunate to have more than just a job - I'm in a profession I love," said Vivona. "I am so grateful for this recognition and would like to thank UTI for always supporting me and giving me the opportunity to help make a difference in the organization and in the lives of so many wonderful students."
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Vivona currently resides in McHenry.