The Perry Rotary Club presented an annual award to a Des Moines Area Community College instructor.

The club has previously presented the Educator of the Year Award to those in the Perry Community School District. President Katie Fitzsimmons says they decided to expand the award to include educators from across the community.

She presented this year’s award to DMACC CNA Instructor Katie Tuel during a CNA pinning ceremony on Thursday at the Perry VanKirk Career Academy. Fitzsimmons talks about why she was nominated.

“I know within Katie’s years at DMACC, she has established a reputation of excellence, leadership and strong commitment to her students. And her classroom is not simply a place of learning, but it’s also a launching point for future successes. Today being part of the CNA pinning ceremony, I can see all of the hard work she has put into the program that she has here.”

Tuel shares her appreciation for receiving the award through the Perry Rotary.

“It’s an honor to be recognized for this. It’s wonderful to be able to work with a great staff here at the Perry center and they assist in making this job an easy job to do. The students are wonderful to work with and they truly brighten my day.”

Thursday’s pinning ceremony saw 33 area students graduate from the CNA program. The VanKirk Career Academy then hosted Tacopalooza to celebrate the end of the academic year. Community members could pick up discounted tacos from local restaurants along with items from area food trucks.

To see photos from the event, click here.