The 2025-26 North Star Awards
NOCCCD is excited to spotlight the four stellar employees that received the North Star Awards this year.
Once a year, the District holds its North Star Awards at one of the end of the year board meetings. This award recognizes an employee's outstanding contributions to the District and, by extension, the community.
The recipients of the 2025-26 North Star Awards are:
- Brittany Hamer, Cypress College, Special Projects Director, Outreach
- Carlos Ayon, Fullerton College, Dean of Business and Computer Information Systems
- Katherine Pham-Le, NOCE, Executive Assistant
- Joseph Aranda, NOCCCD, Professional Development Coordinator
The NOCCCD North Star Award is given out once a year by the members of Chancellor’s Staff in appreciation of an individual’s exceptional contribution to our campuses and District.
Awardees' Achievements and Accomplishments
Cypress College Nominee, Brittany Hamer
Brittany leads a team that on boards students who are first-year and full-time at Cypress College through the Charger Experience Program. The goal of CEP is to provide all incoming students the foundation for success through direct engagement with academic programs and comprehensive understanding of support services. The initial class in 2016 had 168 students participating and last year increased to 1,936 students; an increase of 1052% since the inaugural year. A great deal of the program's success can be attributed to Brittany Hamer's exceptional work ethic, leadership and determination. Brittany is good-natured, positive, and hard-working, but most importantly, she has demonstrated an empathic understanding and sensitivity to our students. She has earned the respect of administrators, faculty, students, and community members. She is committed to student learning, learning outcomes assessment, and helping students reach their goals. Beyond this, she is a leader, team player, and an excellent candidate for this award. She makes a significant impact not only in the lives of our students, but for the community as well.
Fullerton College Nominee, Carlos Ayon
Carlos Ayon serves as Dean of Business and Computer Information Systems at Fullerton College, where he provides leadership and oversight for the accounting, business, computer information systems and paralegal studies programs. In this role, he is committed to advancing student success, promoting equity, instructional quality and workforce education. His work also includes leadership in dual enrollment, Strong Workforce and Perkins, and fostering meaningful collaborations among faculty, staff and students. Ayon also teaches courses in leadership and management.
As a proud Fullerton College alumnus and former Student Trustee, Ayon brings a deep understanding of and commitment to community colleges and the students we serve. These experiences continue to shape his dedication to expanding access and opportunity for students. His leadership philosophy is grounded in collaboration, respect, clarity and service. He believes effective leadership requires active listening, thoughtful decision-making and a strong commitment to supporting others while keeping students at the center of our institutional work.
This spring, Ayon will complete his Ph.D. in Higher Education and Organizational Change at UCLA. His doctoral research focuses on associate degrees for transfer and the role community colleges play in helping students achieve their educational and transfer goals. Beyond his professional work, he is a dedicated family man and actively coaches youth sports, reflecting his commitment to mentorship, teamwork and community both on and off campus.
NOCE Nominee, Katherine Pham-Le
North Orange Continuing Education proudly nominates Katherine Pham-Le, Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Student Services, for the NOCCCD North Star Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership, professionalism, and service to the institution. Katherine consistently demonstrates excellence in work performance through her daily support of staff, faculty, and administrators, while leading major initiatives such as NOCE’s Commencement and Student Success Event, contributing significantly to the Districtwide 25Live implementation and training efforts, and serving in key emergency preparedness and building marshal roles.
Katherine is widely respected for fostering a positive and supportive work environment. Her strong communication skills, encouragement of colleagues, and willingness to mentor others have made her a trusted resource across the campus community. She regularly pursues professional growth opportunities, embraces new responsibilities, and remains actively engaged in institutional initiatives and District events.
Her commitment to operational excellence is evident in the many forms, training materials, spreadsheets, and procedural documents she has developed to improve efficiency and productivity for employees and departments throughout NOCE. Katherine also enhances the image of both NOCE and the District through her professionalism, reliability, and respectful interactions with students, employees, community partners, and vendors. Her adaptability, accountability, and dedication make her highly deserving of this recognition.
District Services Nominee, Joseph Aranda
Joseph supports the District-wide Professional Development Department, including EdVantage, the District’s Learning Management System. Through his work, he plays an essential role in fostering a professional environment where employees—classified professionals, faculty, and managers—feel welcomed, valued, and supported. He assists staff and faculty by bringing vision to life, supporting training systems, and streamlining processes—ultimately enhancing the student experience. What truly sets Joseph apart is his remarkable ability to connect with others. With an approachable and easygoing demeanor, he creates an environment of trust that encourages open communication. He listens with intention, responds with care, and approaches every interaction with a deep commitment to service. Joseph is committed to continuous growth and to serving those around him. His dedication is unwavering, but it is his spirit—thoughtful, compassionate, and guided by integrity—that truly distinguishes him. He does not seek recognition, yet he is often the person quietly ensuring others have what they need to succeed.
Joseph uplifts those around him, leads with humility and warmth, and reflects the very best of our District. He truly exemplifies the spirit of the North Star Award.
Congratulations to all recipients!
