Each term of the academic year, Lane Community College students nominate outstanding faculty for Faculty Recognition Awards. This year, fall 2014 awards went to Steve Candee and Patti Jackson.

Steve Candee teaches political science at Lane and coordinates an internship program that places political science and pre-law students with elected officials, on campaigns and in other opportunities. 2014/15 is his 29th year at Lane. In 1998/99 he was named Instructor of the Year.

"Receiving a Faculty Recognition Award this past fall seems like icing on the cake for a career that has spanned nearly three decades," says Steve. "I am humbled and extremely grateful for the opportunity to have contributed to the education of literally thousands of students over the years, watching many of them move into careers in government, politics and law, many of whom I remain in contact with today."

Steve earned his master's in political science from the University of Oregon. He has authored several academic papers, presented at conferences, spoken at events, and is a popular local pundit and news commentator.

Patti Jackson teaches in adult basic and secondary education helping students master fundamental academic skills so that they can go on to succeed in college, work and life.

Patti has a master's in adult ed from Oregon State University. She has been teaching at Lane for 27 years. She started out by teaching developmental education outreach classes in Junction City and Veneta. From there she moved to the teen parent JOBS program and then Court School which serves teens on probation or parole. She's taught on main campus for the past few years.

"One attribute that helps me is that I have ADHD, and, as a result, I can make connections with many of my students who also have learning challenges," says Patti. "What keeps me enjoying my job is that I am always learning; I continuously marvel at how much my students teach me."