Stacey Marie Svilich Receives Hayward Award for Excellence in Education!

California Community Colleges Board of Governors Honor Feather River College Faculty Member for Excellence in Education

Quincy, CA – The California Community Colleges Board of Governors recently honored Feather River College (FRC) associate faculty member, Stacey Marie Svilich, with the prestigious 2024-25 Gerald C. Hayward Award for Excellence in Education. The Hayward Award for Excellence in Education is presented annually to celebrate outstanding community college faculty members for their commitment to their students, college and profession.

Stacey Svilich is a dedicated community college educator who is committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging (DEIAB) in education, and utilizes a holistic approach to student engagement and success. She currently works as an Associate Professor of History, Sociology, and Ethnic Studies, as well as an Academic Success Coach at Feather River College. She holds a Master's Degree in History from California State University, Chico, and has recently completed a Graduate Certificate in Gender, Race, and Identity Studies from the University of Nevada, Reno. As an educator she has a strong focus on supporting and empowering marginalized students through mentorship, personalized success plans, and strategies to overcome educational barriers.

Stacey is also actively involved in campus engagement, community outreach, and professional development. She has served as a faculty advisor for student clubs, presented on equity-minded practices, and participated in various committees focused on DEIAB and student success. Her community engagement includes collaborations with local organizations and educational institutions to promote antiracist education and cultural awareness. Stacey is a distinguished educator whose unwavering commitment to students inspires faculty and the broader academic community.

“We are truly honored to celebrate this year’s honorees and the difference they make. They have demonstrated exceptional dedication as student-centered educators, and their contributions have been instrumental. Their commitment to Vision 2030 helps us advance our goals of equity in access, support, and success,” said California Community Colleges Chancellor, Sonya Christian.

Award recipients are nominated by their college academic senates and selected by representatives of the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges. “Congratulations to this year's Hayward Award winners and to all faculty nominated for the award by their college academic senates,” said Academic Senate for California Community Colleges President, Cheryl Aschenbach.

Feather River College is honored to have faculty members like Stacey on its team of dedicated educators that are making a true difference in the lives of students. This award is a testament to the mission of Feather River College in its efforts to empower student success. On behalf of FRC Administration, fellow staff and faculty members, the College offers a huge congratulations to Stacey on receiving this prestigious award. Thank you, Stacey, for all of your hard work and dedication!