4th Annual Jesse Jones Leadership Award

Dr. Elsie Burnett has been an incredible asset to Cedar Valley College. For nearly 30 years now, she has been there for the students of Cedar Valley College. Dr. Burnett, started her career as a full-time English faculty member in 1988, and has served in that role with great distinction.

As leader, Dr. Elsie Burnett sets the bar high. When called upon by the college's president, she moved quickly and without hesitation to fill-in as the interim Executive Dean of the Libra Arts Division. For a faculty member to hold an Interim Dean's position over his/her current division, it took a person with fortitude and outstanding leadership to work with other full-time, adjunct faculty, and staff without controversy and/or major conflicts.

In addition, Dr. Burnett has development a reputation as "THE" SACSCOC guru. Her experience with our accrediting agency is unprecedented. During her career she has lead and/or participated on approximately 32 accreditation visits.

We owe Dr. Burnett a tremendous debt of gratitude for commitment to excellence, leadership, and service to not only our institution but to the higher education profession.