Michelle Hampton-Thompson: November MCCer of the Month

Gathered at the MCCer of the Month celebration are, front row from left, Callie Penson, Mallory Hardy, Michelle Hampton-Thompson, Leia Hill, Lori Smith, Lucy Lamberth, Victoria Liddell and Amanda Bratu. Back from left, are Annah McRae, Darren Bane, Dr. Tom Huebner, Rebecca Pierce, Margie Moore and Joseph Knight. Gathered at the MCCer of the Month celebration are, front row from left, Callie Penson, Mallory Hardy, Michelle Hampton-Thompson, Leia Hill, Lori Smith, Lucy Lamberth, Victoria Liddell and Amanda Bratu. Back from left, are Annah McRae, Darren Bane, Dr. Tom Huebner, Rebecca Pierce, Margie Moore and Joseph Knight.


Being able to make a positive impact on other’s lives is powerful. For Michelle Hampton-Thompson, it’s the most rewarding aspect of her job.

Working at Meridian Community College for a decade, Hampton-Thompson started her MCC career with the Best Early Education Practices (BEEP) program and is now the project and grant manager in Workforce Development arena. “If you work in education, whether as a teacher or a support person, you are a part of giving people the skills they need to succeed in the real world,” she said, adding, “That’s satisfying.”

Hampton-Thompson’s work ethic and commitment to the College were applauded when she was named MCCer of the Month for November. The MCC Foundation sponsors this peer-nominated monthly award; it represents faculty and staff members who are difference-makers. To be named, the recipient must be a current member of the MCC Foundation and have been employed by the College for at least two years. Recipients are given a $250 honorarium.

A native of Lisman, Ala., Hampton-Thompson is also an MCC alumna who holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood and family education, and a master’s and education specialist degrees, also in early childhood education.

She follows the philosophy of “it takes a big heart to help shape the minds of others.”  Still, others recognize her dedication. “Michelle is one of the sweetest persons I know and a great worker who has a good influence on our team. She always goes above and above the objectives established for our division,” said a nominator.

Lucy Lamberth, director of workforce grants and development, serves as Hampton-Thompson’s supervisor. Lamberth noted Hampton-Thompson is always willing to lend a helping hand. “She brings a positive, team-player attitude to our department,” she said.

When she’s not working on campus, Hampton-Thompson enjoys decorating and shopping.