NORTH COAST, Calif. – Dan Jenkins, a tenured professor at Mendocino College, recently accepted the H. Sanford Gum Service Award for his tremendous efforts in the field of Cooperative Work Experience Education (CWEE).

Completing his 21 year of instructing at Mendocino College, this prestigious award came as no surprise to the college administration or Jenkin’s colleagues.

“The capacity and excellence of our instructors here at Mendocino College never ceases to amaze me,” said Mendocino College Superintendent/President Arturo Reyes. “I am both inspired and impressed by the hard work, dedication, and expertise displayed by Professor Jenkins. Mr. Jenkins works to improve student success each and every day so he is most deserving of this award. I offer him my sincere congratulations on this accomplishment.”

The H. Sanford Gum Service Award, presented by the California Internship and Work Experience Association, or CIWEA, recognizes outstanding professionals who have been in the internship and work experience field for 20 years or more and are recognized mentors and contributors in the field.

Jenkins has been the full-time CWEE director for Mendocino College since 2005, and has coordinated the college’s Human Services Programs since 1999.

Since 1996 Professor Jenkins has been the field placement seminar and practicum (internship) instructor for both the Human Services and Alcohol & Other Drug Studies Programs at Mendocino College.

Professor Jenkins also organized the first ever northern California CWEE coordinators association beginning in 2005 and served on the Chancellor’s State-Wide Advisory Committee for Work-Based Learning and Employment Services for six years.

Jenkins also served on the CIWEA Board of Directors for six years in multiple capacities, including mentoring coordinator, conference chair, president, and past president.

He has also presented at multiple CIWEA professional development conferences providing important updates from the Chancellor’s Office on legislation, regulations, and best practices.

CWEE colleagues around the state use the words “expert,” “remarkable,” “mentor,” “representative,” “amazing” and “knowledgeable” to name a few when describing Professor Jenkins.

Kathleen Clark, internship program director at Monterey Peninsula College said it best: “You have been an amazing colleague from the first time we met. I truly appreciate what you have done for me in the field of work-based learning.”