SPC VP Gets Kudos for Military Support

Dr. Jamelle Conner

Congratulations to Dr. Jamelle Conner, St. Petersburg College’s Vice President of Student Affairs, who was named a Patriotic Employer by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a U.S. Department of Defense program designed to promote collaboration between Reserve Component Service members and civilian employers.

In an effort to foster a culture where all employers support National Guard and Reserve members, ESGR created this award to highlight the efforts made to support employees who serve through flexible scheduling and allowing time off for deployment.

“These citizen warriors could not defend and protect us at home and abroad without the continued promise of meaningful civilian employment for themselves and their families,” the ESGR website says. “Together, we all serve!”

Conner was submitted for this award by Dr. Eric Carver, SPC’s Acting Provost for SPC’s Health Education Center, Veterinary Technology Program and Allstate Campus, who is a U.S. Air Force Reserve officer and serves as the Director of Clinical Operations for the 919^th Special Operations Wing.

“This is the first time I’ve ever won this award, and it was an absolute surprise,” she said. “I didn’t even know I’d been nominated.”

Having several family members who have served in the military, Conner said she truly appreciates those in the armed forces.

“Our Reserve members are willing to continue to serve in addition to their civilian careers – to aid, support, and protect us and our country in current crises and emergencies,” she said. “It means a great deal that Dr. Carver knows he is supported in his continued service as a Reserve member.”

Carver said Conner is consistently supportive.

“Dr. Conner’s support of SPC student veterans, military veterans, and Reserve and Guard service members has been unwavering,” he said. “She remains flexible and supportive, and we are grateful for her efforts in showing that St. Petersburg College is an inclusive and inviting place for student veterans, military service members, and family members of those who have served.”