College of the Canyons recognized its employees during an awards ceremony Thursday. The event featured a luncheon during which board members, administrators and managers served classified employees a catered meal with an American Idol theme.

The ceremony focused on classified employees, who hold support positions at the community college. Thursday marked the 13th year that the college has honored its employees. Six awards were handed out and recipients received a plaque and cash awards.

Among the awards presented included:

n Employee of the Year: Sarah Ehrsam, athletic trainer. Ehrsam was honored for her efforts in caring for students and student-athletes.

n Humanitarian Award: Nancy Faulconer, administrative assistant in the Allied Health Office. Faulconer was recognized for her reputation as a go-to person for fundraising and getting things done.

n New Visions Award: John Makevich, Distance Learning. Makevich teaches the Blackboard workshops, which is a computer software program used to deliver online classes.

n Professional Achievement Award: Rachael Rodriquez, Admissions and Records office, for her dedication to her job.

n Gloria Jackson Service Award: Wendy Trujillo, administrative assistant to the college’s Communications, Marketing and External Relations offices. Trujillo was  thanked her enthusiasm, good humor and positive attitude.

n California School Employee Association (CSEA) Member of the Year Award: Vance Pelland, Facilities department. Pelland was honored for his efforts as the union local’s Chief Job Steward for the past four years.