Northern Marianas College recently honored six of its employees with the 2025 Proa Awards, recognizing their exceptional contributions, dedication, and service to the College and its students. Each year, NMC presents these awards to faculty and staff members who exemplify the College’s mission, values, and commitment to student success. This year’s awardees were celebrated for their professionalism, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the NMC community.
The selection of the awardees was made by a committee composed of staff and faculty. The awards were presented during the CNMI government agency-wide Labor Day picnic at the Garapan Fishing Base on Sunday.
Senior Web and Digital Media Design Specialist Renedel “Ren” Buno was named the 2025 Staff of the Year after being nominated and endorsed by his colleagues. Buno was recognized for his dedication, humility, and reliability. His leadership was critical in the successful transition to a new enterprise system, which modernized student services and strengthened administrative efficiency across all campuses. Beyond his technical expertise, he has consistently supported training, multimedia, and institutional initiatives, inspiring colleagues and enhancing the College’s mission.
Science, Math, Athletics, and Health Assistant Professor II Lisa Lunde earned the distinction of 2025 Faculty of the Year, an honor given to her by the selection committee based on feedback from students and peers. Lunde was recognized for her professionalism, approachability, and deep commitment to student success. Known for creating an inclusive learning environment, she goes above and beyond to support students both academically and personally. Through her innovative lessons, holistic advising, and acts of kindness, she has become beloved by her students and respected by her peers.
Distance Learning Coordinator William “Will” Hunter was chosen as the 2025 Non-Instructional Faculty of the Year following strong recommendations from faculty and staff across campus. Hunter was recognized for his instrumental role in advancing NMC’s distance learning efforts. From developing and maintaining the learning management system to training faculty and exploring new technologies like AI and virtual reality, he has been a driving force in strengthening teaching and learning. Colleagues describe him as approachable, forward-thinking, and dedicated to student and faculty success.
Center for Training and Innovation Director Monique Boyer Sablan received the 2025 Supervisor of the Year award, selected by the committee in recognition of her outstanding leadership and team-building. Sablan was honored for her role in expanding programs that connect education with workforce needs. Under her guidance, her department has thrived as a hub of innovation and community impact, securing funding for new opportunities and strengthening partnerships across the CNMI. Her professionalism and care for people have elevated the College’s role in the community.
Early Intervention Counselor Clarice DLG Arriola was honored as the 2025 Counselor of the Year after being nominated by her coworkers and supported by students who praised her guidance. Arriola was recognized for her compassion and dedication to students. Known for her cheerful and approachable demeanor, she has made a lasting impact by creating a supportive environment where students feel empowered to succeed. Her contributions have strengthened student support programs across NMC, making processes more effective and student-centered.
Student Success Counselor Guadalupe “Lupe” Camacho was awarded the 2025 Overall Employee of the Year, the highest honor given by NMC, after receiving overwhelming support from both peers and the awards committee. Camacho was recognized for her compassion, leadership, and professionalism. A former NMC student and student leader, she has continued her lifelong commitment to the College through her work as a counselor and staff senate president. Colleagues describe her as someone who consistently goes above and beyond to support students and staff alike, embodying the true spirit of the PROA family.
“These Proas represent the best of NMC: talented, hard-working, and passionate about improving lives through education,” NMC President Galvin Deleon Guerrero said. “They make us proud and remind us all about the value of higher education and the vital role that NMC plays in our islands.”