News and Events

Legendary Staff Person of the Year: Vicki Sward

Behind every smooth admissions process, every student who finds their footing, and every crisis quietly averted before anyone notices, there's often a steady, capable hand working tirelessly in the background. For ATCC's Admissions department, that hand belongs to Vicki Sward.

As Student Services Manager, Vicki is the backbone of Admissions, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks even amid staff transitions and organizational change. Her colleagues describe her as the kind of person who thinks through every detail to prevent failure before it happens.

Here's what her nominators had to say:

"Vicki is accountable, caring, and genuinely invested in the success of everyone around her. She works tirelessly to keep a busy, road-facing team connected to the core of our department while bridging relationships across divisions."

"She goes above and beyond to ensure students feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it's offering encouragement during challenging times or taking extra steps to connect students with the resources they need, she leads with compassion in everything she does."

What makes Vicki's impact all the more remarkable is that she's delivered it year after year without seeking recognition or reward. She makes excellence look effortless, even when it isn't. Her institutional knowledge, her steady presence, and her genuine heart for student success have helped shape Admissions into what it is today.

Vicki, you are long overdue for this recognition. Thank you for being the quiet force that keeps so much running so well.

Legendary Educator of the Year: Julie Haar

If you've ever met Julie Haar, you already know: her energy is contagious, her enthusiasm is genuine, and her commitment to students is total. Julie doesn't just teach, she champions, mentors, connects, and inspires.

Her nominators — colleagues, fellow educators, and students alike, paint a vivid picture of someone who pours herself into every role she takes on, from advising the DECA program and building industry partnerships to welcoming new faculty and organizing the kind of casual get-togethers that build community.

A fellow faculty member shared:

"From the moment I joined ATCC as a new instructor, Julie took me under her wing with genuine enthusiasm and a sincere desire to mentor. Julie embodies what it means to be student-oriented; every decision she makes, every effort she puts forth, reflects her deep commitment to supporting students and helping them succeed."

And from a student whose path she helped shape:

"She encouraged me to follow my dreams, to pursue the career I have always wanted. She pushed me to keep to my goal of graduating this spring and helped me get there. She is personable with her students and their biggest cheerleader!"

Julie is also a tireless advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, modeling inclusive behaviors daily and ensuring every student, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive. Her colleagues describe her as someone who identifies needs, proposes solutions, and leads with both vision and heart.

Julie, your passion for teaching and your belief in your students make ATCC a better place. Thank you for being an inspiration to so many.

Thank you to these two outstanding individuals from everyone here at Alexandria Technical and Community College. Vicki Sward, your quiet dedication and deep care for students and colleagues have been the steady foundation of our Admissions department for years. Julie Haar, your enthusiasm, mentorship, and fierce advocacy for student success have left an indelible mark on our campus community. Both of you embody the very best of what it means to be Legendary and we are so proud to celebrate you.