MCCESC provides educational services for the counties’ most vulnerable children. Dr. Kaffenbarger has worked with his administrative team over the past several years to establish a mission of “We Work to Serve,” and the staff does just that.
Using the STAR of customer service (Serving others, Teamwork, Attitude, Reliability), supervisors within the agency work to encourage their teachers, paraprofessionals, nurses, and many others to exude a servant’s heart. Dr. K was most recently named the Outstanding Superintendent by the Southwest Region of the Ohio School Boards Association. His excellent performance is demonstrated through the hard work he puts forth on a daily basis to support the requests and needs of the nine districts and two career-tech centers served by MCCESC. Dr. K holds monthly meetings for superintendents – one for Madison County and one for Champaign County. He holds quarterly meetings for area principals and serves on the Business Advisory Council, Kiwanis, and the Family Children First Council, along with being a leader within his church. About LifeChanger of the Year Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence and leadership. Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Eighteen individual LifeChanger of the Year awards will be given during the 2021-2022 school year. 1 Grand Prize Winner – will receive $10,000 to be shared with their school/district. 4 Grand Prize Finalists – will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district. 10 LifeChanger Award Winners – will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district. 1 Spirit Award Winner – This award is given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district. 1 Capstone Award Winner – This award is given to a nominee retiring at the end of the 2019-20 school year. The winner will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school or district. 1 Spotlight Award Winner – This award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. For 2021-22, the Spotlight Award will be given to a school nurse. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district. Winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees. To be considered for an award, nominees must make a positive impact in the lives of students; enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture and pride; demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level; possess a proven record of professional excellence; show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning; adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards. A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit/. To view Dr. Kaffenbarger’s LifeChanger of the Year nominee profile, or to nominate someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.
“Richard Ebert as the incoming Executive Director will be a welcome addition to the Champaign Economic Partnership,” Bailey said. “His previous work experience and knowledge of the community is a vital asset to this position. Richard is a lifelong resident of Urbana/Champaign County and will have the best interest of the community in this new role. I look forward to seeing Champaign County continue to flourish.”
As a lifelong resident of Urbana, small business owner and fervent servant of his community, Ebert knows the importance of making connections that benefit the community. “We have experienced a tremendous amount of growth over the past few years. I want to continue assisting with that growth and look forward to finding solutions for our county businesses,” explained Ebert upon the announcement of his appointment. Ebert goes on to share that working with Bailey certainly influenced his plan to expand current economic development. “My goal is to continue to grow CEP, create new opportunities and continue to look for ways to make connections between entities that benefit so many people.” Ebert’s roots run deep in his community. He is both an alum of Urbana High School and the former Urbana University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Human Service Leadership. While serving professionally in many capacities, he most recently worked under the umbrella of the Champaign County Clerk of Courts as an Assistant Manager with the Champaign County BMV. He currently owns an entertainment business, Ebert Entertainment, where he is the DJ/Master of Ceremonies, served as an elected official for Urbana City Council and he and his wife have both owned small businesses located in Monument Square. His volunteer work includes being a member and chair for the City of Urbana Planning Commission and Urbana City Schools as the voice of the Urbana High School Marching Band. Ebert says he has always had a calling to work within the business community of his hometown. “What Marcia has created, in essence, is a dream job. Our local county businesses are so vitally important. Being able to better serve them and the county communities is something I feel very strongly about.” Kyle Hall, President of The Hall Company and President of CEP Board of Trustees shared his excitement for the future of Champaign County with Ebert onboard, “Richard has demonstrated a passion for Champaign County’s success over the years and is excited to get started. We look forward to seeing continued growth for our county and its towns and cities as we move forward.” Ebert plans to hit the ground running. “I am looking forward to meeting and talking to the business leaders and employers in our community. I am also excited to meet with the county villages and find out their hopes and dreams for their economic development,” he said. “I look forward to finding where I can be of the most assistance and really talk about strengths and opportunities where CEP can benefit those we serve.” |
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