July MCCer of the Month: Kristy Ethridge
Six years after graduating from Meridian Community College, Kristy Ethridge returned to her alma mater as an instructor.
Now in her 25th year at MCC, she serves as coordinator and instructor for the Health Care Assistant Program, and has been named the July MCCer of the Month.
The MCCer of the Month Award, sponsored by the MCC Foundation, honors employees who go above and beyond their regular duties. Honorees are nominated by their peers and receive a plaque and $250.
A Meridian native, Ethridge graduated from MCC's Associate Degree Nursing Program in 1996. Her first job was in a hospital’s labor and delivery unit, and she went on to spend five years at East Mississippi State Hospital before joining MCC's faculty in 2002.
What she loves most about the job, she said, is seeing students grow into future health care workers. "I enjoy working with students and watching them grow throughout the semester," she said. "I also enjoy working with my wonderful coworkers."
That same drive to help students succeed extends beyond the classroom. "What motivates me is knowing that I can make a difference in the lives of my students and ultimately in the lives of the patients they will care for," Ethridge said. "I believe God has placed me in this position to do just that."
Dr. Lara Collum, vice president for workforce solutions and dean of nursing, said that dedication shows in everything Ethridge does. "Kristy brings kindness, compassion, and a great sense of humor to her work every day," Dr. Collum said. "She genuinely cares about her students and is deeply committed to their success. Whether during class or outside of regular hours, she is always willing to provide extra support and encouragement."
What Ethridge values most about MCC, she said, is its sense of family. "I'm surrounded by wonderful coworkers and administrators who genuinely value, support and appreciate us."
Colleagues echo the sentiment. One nominator said, “Kristy embodies the spirit, integrity, and compassion that make Meridian Community College exceptional. Kristy is a pillar of support, encouragement, and positivity, and MCC is better because she is a part of it.”
Family is equally important to Ethridge outside of MCC. She and her husband, Keith, have six children, ranging in age from 17 to 36, and six grandchildren. "Family is one of the greatest blessings in my life and is a huge part of who I am," she said. "They are all among my greatest joys."
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/mccerofthemonth.