Sammy Gomez to receive Excellence in Service Award at Harper College’s MLK Celebration

Sammy Gomez is always moving. A member of Harper College’s campus setup crew, Gomez and his colleagues set up tables and chairs for events and meetings, haul in shelves to create new workspaces, and remove furniture prior to renovations. And he does it all with friendly smile and a collaborative spirit.

Which is part of the reason he is being honored with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Excellence in Service Award. The annual award celebrates a Harper employee whose exceptional service is defined by care, connection and a personal touch.

Gomez has worked on campus for more than 11 years — first, with Sodexo at Harper’s Subway location, and the past 2½ years with operations services — and is being recognized for his dependability, work ethic and helping to foster a campus where everyone feels supported as individuals. It’s not surprising to learn that teamwork is what Gomez likes best about his job.

“I enjoy working with the team. I like working together with everyone,” he said. “I think it’s good when people need something and I can help. That makes me feel good. I like making sure the person likes what we put together, that it works for them. I always try to make sure that person is happy.”

What makes Gomez happy is his family. Born and raised in Mexico City, Gomez came to Chicago when he was 21. His parents and nine siblings now live nearby and gather often for holidays and celebrations. He’s proud of his daughter, who graduated from college last year and is working in marketing. Gomez relishes Sundays, when he can kick back, drink lots of coffee and watch sports.

He was surprised when he learned about earning this Excellence in Service Award.

“When I got the email, I really didn’t believe it,” Gomez said, admitting that he’s less comfortable being in the spotlight than working behind the scenes. “I feel good and I appreciate it, but I still don’t believe it. I would like to dedicate this award to my entire work team.”

Harper’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will honor Gomez at the annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, in the Wojcik Conference Center, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine.

The annual event will include keynote speaker Shermann “Dilla” Thomas, a Chicago historian, followed by a reception and lunch from 1 to 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome. For more information, visit events.harpercollege.edu.