The American Association of Community Colleges has recognized two Clark State College leaders for their impact on students and higher education.
Matt Franz, Ed.D., senior vice president of enterprise operations, has been named a finalist for the Rising Star Award in the Executive category, while Jessica Adams, associate professor of English, has been selected as a recipient of the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Award. Both honors highlight promising practices and recognize leaders across the nation’s community colleges who advance student success and institutional innovation.
Franz is one of four finalists nationwide for the 2026 Rising Star Award.
“I cannot express how thankful I am for the opportunity to serve alongside amazing colleagues at a college where so many people are rowing in the same direction for students,” said Franz. “Being named a finalist for the AACC Rising Star is a meaningful moment for me and is a reflection of the team and the culture of care at Clark State.”
Franz has served Clark State since 2013, holding leadership roles in information technology, safety and strategic initiatives before assuming his current role. In 2016, he was appointed to an AACC commission focused on research, technology and emerging trends — a recognition of his leadership in the community college field.
Beyond his institutional leadership, Franz is active in professional service initiatives that support innovation and leadership development in higher education and technology. His work emphasizes building systems that improve the student experience and campus safety.
Adams is recognized with the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Award which honors faculty who demonstrate passion for teaching and make a lasting difference in the classroom.
“I am tremendously honored to receive this recognition,” Adams said. “The work of community colleges and the educational access we provide are so important. I feel lucky to have a job focused on service to students here at Clark State, which is such a supportive environment.”
Adams began her career at Clark State in 2017. She serves as co-advisor for Phi Theta Kappa, an international honor society, where she has been recognized for leadership and innovation. She received the Clark State Faculty Excellence Award in 2024 and, in 2025, participated in the SOAR mentoring program under Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., Clark State president.
Both Franz and Adams will be recognized during the AACC annual convention April 10–14 in Seattle.
“Dr. Franz and Jessica’s dedication to innovation, student success and the mission of community colleges is evident through these honors,” said Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., president of Clark State College. “We are incredibly proud to see their work recognized nationally by the AACC. Distinctions like this reflect the extraordinary commitment our faculty and leadership bring to supporting students every day.”
