Margie Moore: MCCer of the Month for August
At the celebration of the MCCer of the Month award presentation are Dr. Tom Huebner, left, Dr. Leia Hill, Margie
Moore, Joseph Knight, and Lucy Lamberth.
Establishing connections is paramount for Margie Moore, Meridian Community College's Out-of-School Youth Program coordinator.
"My priority when meeting the participants is to build a relationship of trust and to let them know that hard work and persistence is the roadmap to earning your goals," she said.
MCC's Out-of-School Youth Program supports 16 to 24-year-olds who are not attending school and still need to earn a high school diploma. Participants gain life skills and work experiences; for those without a high school diploma, the program helps them complete their high school equivalency.
Moore assists in their job readiness skills. "I work with them closely on their resume development, job search techniques, communication, and interview skills," she said, adding, "I also work on building their self-confidence and approach to developing a better life."
Others have noticed Moore's dedication to her job. "To watch her teach her students is simply a joy. She goes beyond the duty of just teaching; she sometimes has to be a mother, counselor, and a friend to her students," one wrote.
Moore has been selected MCCer of the Month for August. The MCCer of the Month award, sponsored by the MCC Foundation, salutes the College's hardworking employees who go above and beyond their duties. In addition to a commemorative plaque, honorees receive a cash award of $250.
Working with these students is the best part of Moore's job, explicitly building their self-confidence. "I believe in the importance of self-esteem and self-worth while in class is vital to each participant's success in the workforce," she said.
Lucy Lamberth, director of workforce grants and development, said Moore shows compassion and dedication to the program's students. "She is one of the best in intrusive advising at building relationships with each student. She cares deeply and works diligently to ensure our students are successful," Lamberth said.
Moore, who has worked at MCC for six years, began working as a machine operator in a garment factory. Later she would log in 15 years at Head Start as a lead teacher and transporter; and six years with Mississippi State Extension Service's Early Years Network as a parent educator before coming to MCC.
When asked what was the best thing she liked about MCC, Moore replied, "Anyone can truly find their wings."
A native of DeKalb, Moore holds an associate's degree and a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Mississippi State University. She and her husband, Leon Moore, have a son, Terrance Wilkins, a daughter-in-law, Tora Wilkins, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
When she's not busy helping others, Moore enjoys being outdoors.
To learn more, visit meridiancc.edu/mccerofthemonth.