We have not published a Digest since September, and I am going to blame all of us for being deeply busy, fully booked, and slightly overextended. What I will not say is that we were quiet. Because we were anything but quiet.

Since September, MCRPA has been moving, gathering, laughing, planning, and building.

In September, we kicked off the year with a lively happy hour at Uncle Julio’s. It was one of those evenings where you remember why informal connection matters. Familiar faces, new faces, long conversations, and that feeling of being part of something that extends beyond your day-to-day role.

In October, we hosted our Leadership Unscripted session with Susan Madden, a thoughtful and candid conversation that reminded us leadership is not polished scripts and perfect answers. It is reflection, honesty, and growth in real time.

Then came our annual Summer Farm campfire trip. S’mores this year were both sweet and savory, which feels like a metaphor for MCRPA in general. Fireworks lit up the sky, the corn maze tested our directional confidence, the petting zoo brought out our softer sides, and laughter carried the night. It continues to be one of my favorite traditions because it captures who we are when we are simply together.

November brought Friendsgiving. Grilled cheese. Soup. Member-supplied treats that somehow always exceed expectations. And then Paul Miller, MCRPA Vice President, hosted a trivia hour, which was competitive in the best way. Bragging rights were claimed. Team pride was secured. It was cozy, joyful, and exactly what we needed. November also included a thoughtful Lunch & Learn session led by Daniel Umana and Paul Miller titled Artificial Intelligence in Focus: Friend, Foe, or Something in Between? The conversation invited members to reflect on how AI is shaping higher education and the workplace, sparking thoughtful discussion about both the opportunities and the questions these emerging technologies bring.

While the fall felt social and lively, behind the scenes we were working. Planning. Dreaming. Rebuilding.

In the new year, we celebrated Valentine’s Day with origami led by Nghi Nguyen and live piano from our very own Piano Man. Thank you to Megan Cooperman for continuing to infuse wellness into so many of our gatherings. It is those small, thoughtful touches that turn events into experiences.

As for me, I have spent much of my winter herding cats in southern New Jersey. Literally. If you would like a full update on how feral cats have become my babies, I am happy to provide one. I will not be performing stand-up at Give a Hoot Comedy Club just yet, but I am workshopping material involving ravioli and feline chaos. Stay tuned.

Speaking of comedy, I had the opportunity to attend Give a Hoot Comedy Club in support of Friends of the Library Montgomery County, where I serve on the Board of Trustees and Chair of the Board Development and Governance Committee. Being part of a board like this has been one of the most meaningful professional experiences I have had. It is a chance to contribute to something larger than your day-to-day role, to think strategically, and to support a mission that directly impacts our community. I know many of our members are involved in boards, committees, and service organizations, and for those who are not, I cannot recommend it enough. It changes how you see your work and your impact.

Staff Enrichment Day was another highlight this season. There is something truly energizing about seeing so many colleagues come together, not just to learn, but to connect, to share, and simply to be in community with one another. Across sessions, you could feel the engagement in the rooms, people asking questions, trying something new, and taking time to invest in themselves and each other. The day began with an inspiring perspective from Paul Miller on participatory governance, setting a thoughtful tone for the conversations and learning that followed. I am incredibly grateful to the College, to governance, and to the committee that works so hard behind the scenes to make this day possible. Many of those individuals are active MCRPA members, and we tip our hats to them for creating such a meaningful experience for all of us.

Carla Ammerman and I had a full room for Crafting Connections, and it was exactly what we hoped it would be. A space where people could create, connect, and leave with something tangible in their hands. There is something powerful about stepping away from screens and working with your hands alongside colleagues. Participants wrote meaningful messages on business-sized cards with inspiring sentiments, and I spent the rest of the day handing them out. It was genuinely thrilling to see how excited people were to be seen in that small but meaningful way. That is what MCRPA does best. We bring people together. In the afternoon, Jennifer Baugh’s Baker’s Clay session was just as impactful. The room was filled with creativity, reflection, and some truly incredible artistic creations. Both sessions were a reminder that professional development can look different and still be deeply meaningful.

What is upcoming…

On April 2 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. via Zoom, we will bring back our all-members gathering in a refreshed format: Find Your People. This MCRPA community conversation will create space to pause during the workday, reconnect with colleagues across the college, and reflect on what makes this network meaningful. Together, we will explore what people value most about MCRPA, share ideas about the kinds of connections that make work more fulfilling, and spend time imagining what is possible for our community moving forward. It will be a thoughtful, energizing hour and a chance to simply be in community with one another.

On April 30 from 12 to 1:30 via Zoom and again on May 7 in person at CT S108, Megan Cooperman and I will be leading a session titled: Protect Your Peace. This offering is part of completing the requirements of the Bridge program many of us participated in this fall. Bridge was a powerful professional development experience that MC invested in, and it was one of the most meaningful trainings I have experienced in recent years. Protect Your Peace will create space for reflection, honest conversation, and thoughtful dialogue about how we move forward with intention. It is not a lecture. It is a chance to pause, talk things out, and sit in a safe and supportive space together. I hope you will consider joining us.

Following that, 5 Weeks of Fun returns (stay tuned for more information), led by Nichole Land and Maria Martinez, our Community Engagement and Events Committee Chairs. And then on June 9^th, we make history.

Our 11th year of retreats becomes our first-ever conference. This evolution is being led by Kimberly Bloch-Rincan and Daniel Umana of the Professional Development Committee. It will be held at the ECEC on June 9th and is already shaping up to be an incredible day. Mark your calendar now. If you are interested in presenting or volunteering, please complete the form linked in this Digest.

On a personal note, I was honored to receive the Peggy Bebee Distinguished Staff Award during Staff Enrichment Day. This recognition means more to me than I can easily put into words because it comes directly from peers. To be seen and valued by the people you work alongside every day is something truly special, and I am deeply grateful.

In the spirit of Peggy Bebee, and in recognition of the fact that MCRPA has not yet secured a college sponsor, I have decided to use the award funds to give back to this community. On June 9^th, I will be sponsoring lunch for our conference attendees. It feels like the right way to honor the award, by giving it back to the very people who made it possible.

As you can see, there is a lot ahead and I hope to see you at one or all of it.

Dr. Christine Crefton

MCRPA President

Our September happy hour at Uncle Julio’s brought members old and new into one lively, welcoming space filled with conversation, laughter, and reconnection. It was one of those evenings that reminds you why informal gatherings matter just as much as formal programming.

Between shared appetizers and spontaneous catch-ups, colleagues from across campuses had the chance to slow down and simply be people first. New members found easy entry points into conversation. Longtime members reconnected after a busy summer. And for a few hours, work titles faded into the background while community moved to the forefront.

It was relaxed. It was joyful. And it set the tone for a year centered on connection.

Susan brought honesty, depth, and candor to the discussion, reminding us that leadership is not about polished scripts or perfect answers. It is about reflection, humility, courage, and growth in real time. Members asked thoughtful, courageous questions that pushed the conversation deeper, creating space for real dialogue rather than surface-level takeaways.

Skillfully facilitated by Kimberly Bloch-Rincan, the session flowed with intention and heart. Her guidance helped elevate the discussion, ensuring that participant voices were centered and that the conversation remained grounded, reflective, and impactful.

The energy in the Zoom room was strong, proving once again that connection does not depend on physical space. When leaders speak openly about challenges and lessons learned, and when members show up ready to engage, we all grow together.

As the sun began to set, members made their way toward the campfire circle, arms full of roasting sticks and snack bags. This year’s spread did not disappoint. Alongside the classic marshmallows and chocolate were savory options that sparked creative combinations and a few friendly debates about the “right” way to build the perfect bite. The glow of the fire, enhanced with colorful pixie dust that sent bursts of light through the flames, created a cozy focal point where people lingered and caught up.

Beyond the fire, the farm offered something for everyone. Groups navigated the corn maze together, laughing at wrong turns and celebrating small victories when they found their way out. Others wandered toward the petting zoo, where goats and other farm friends offered lighthearted moments and photo opportunities. As darkness settled in, the fireworks display became the highlight of the evening. There was a collective pause as we stood shoulder to shoulder, looking up together at the sky.

What the photos capture are smiles, bundled scarves, glowing faces around the fire, and those small in-between moments that define community. Summer Farm Campfire Night continues to be a reminder that connection does not require a formal agenda. Sometimes it only requires a fire, a little crisp air, and the willingness to show up.

In the week leading up to the event, the Community Engagement and Events Committee gathered to create handmade crafts that would serve as decorations. The extra care showed. The space felt intentional, welcoming, and festive without being overdone. It felt personal, which is exactly what we hoped for.

Members arrived carrying dishes that could have fed twice the crowd. Tables quickly filled with side dishes, desserts, and beverages that reflected the diversity and generosity of our group. The grilled cheese and soup station became an instant hit. There is something about warm bread and a bowl of soup in November that just works. It may very well become a permanent fall tradition.

Nearly 40 members attended, and the room buzzed with conversation. People lingered. They circled back for seconds. They pulled chairs together to make room for one more person. It felt cozy in the best way.

Once plates began to empty and the pace slowed, Dr. Paul Miller, MCRPA Vice President, stepped in to host an hour of trivia. What followed was competitive energy, quick thinking, and plenty of laughter. Teams formed, alliances were declared, and bragging rights were fiercely earned. It was fun to watch the room shift from relaxed dining to playful rivalry.

Friendsgiving reminded us that community can be simple and still powerful. A potluck lunch, a room full of colleagues, good food, and a little friendly competition were more than enough. It was relaxed, genuine, and a strong reminder of why showing up for one another matters.

Through discussion and examples, Daniel and Paul encouraged attendees to consider both the opportunities and the challenges that AI presents. Participants explored questions about how AI tools can support productivity and creativity while also reflecting on issues such as ethics, trust, and responsible use.

The session created space for thoughtful conversation and curiosity, reminding us that emerging technologies are best approached through shared learning and open dialogue. It was a great example of how MCRPA professional development events help members stay informed, engaged, and connected as the landscape of higher education continues to evolve.

At the same time, live piano music from our very own “Piano Man” created a warm and reflective backdrop. The gentle soundtrack transformed the room, turning what could have been a simple craft activity into a full sensory experience. Conversations felt softer. Smiles lingered longer.

Megan’s continued commitment to weaving wellness into our programming was felt throughout the event. The combination of mindful movement through paper folding and the grounding presence of live music created space to slow down in the middle of a busy semester. It was a reminder that celebration does not have to be loud to be meaningful. Sometimes it is the quieter gatherings that leave the deepest impression.

As a board member of Friends of the Library Montgomery County and Chair of the Board Development and Governance Committee, I care deeply about this mission and the impact it has across our county. I attended the Thursday night show and truly loved seeing some familiar MCRPA faces there. Together, we enjoyed a great night out, and supported a cause that benefits all of us.

To learn more about Friends of the Library Montgomery County, visit https://folmc.org/.

We gathered for the cause. Stayed for the comedy. And left with a full heart, laughter we will still be talking about, and some of the best, most abundant salsa I have ever tasted.

— Christine

Congratulations to our MCRPA President Dr. Christine Crefton for her amazing, and well-deserved, 2025-2026 Peggy Bebee Staff Distinguished Award, presented at Staff Enrichment Day!

During the day, MCRPA members hosted two exciting Staff Enrichment Day opportunities: Crafting Connections and Baker’s Clay – A Restorative Sculpture Workshop.

Crafting Connections with Carla Ammerman and Christine Crefton

This was not a lecture about creativity, rather it was an actual arts and crafts hour where participants rotated through four different craft stations, creating meaningful, giftable items with their own hands. The interactive session helped us reflect on our commitment to fostering belonging, professional growth, and meaningful cross campus relationships.

As we rotated through stations, we built new connections with colleagues we may not otherwise met, recognized how small acts of generosity strengthen workplace culture, and experienced how creativity can open space for real conversation.

Baker’s Clay – A Restorative Sculpture Workshop with Jennifer Baugh

In this hands-on workshop, participants experienced the calming, meditative process of mixing and sculpting baker’s clay, a medium popularized in the 1960s and 70s by artist and educator Ruth Asawa. While salt dough is an ancient material, Asawa developed a specific educational recipe that she used to create intricate models with her students, many of which were later cast in bronze.

Together, we mixed a simple flour salt water dough and explored how the tactile rhythm of kneading and shaping can quiet the mind, reduce stress, and spark creativity. We created small sculptural forms such as abstract shapes, nature inspired pieces, symbolic objects, or small keepsakes, that everyone got to take with them, while engaging in a guided reflective process centered on restoration and impact.

For 15 years, MCRPA has been a space where Montgomery College employees connect, grow as leaders, and support one another across campuses and departments. It has always been something unique: an organization built and sustained entirely by its members.

Join us for a one-hour MCRPA community conversation designed to reconnect members and reflect on what makes this network meaningful. This interactive session will create space to pause during the workday, meet colleagues from across the college, and share ideas about the experiences, programs, and relationships that help our professional community thrive. Together we will reflect on what people value most about MCRPA, explore the kinds of connections that make work more fulfilling, and imagine the possibilities ahead for our community.

You can expect thoughtful conversation, a few light moments, and the chance to contribute your perspective alongside colleagues who care about building a supportive and engaging professional community at Montgomery College.

Feel free to enjoy your lunch during the session and come ready to share, listen, and reconnect.

Your voice matters, and we hope you will be part of the conversation.

Register here:
https://montgomerycollege.zoom.us/meeting/register/aiY5Ai4gRB2tV0ehHgK_-A

This spring, Megan Cooperman and Christine Crefton will lead Protect Your Peace, a facilitated dialogue designed to create space for reflection, connection, and honest conversation about how we sustain ourselves in our work and community.

This session grows out of the BRIDGE program (Building Relationships through Inclusive Dialogue and Genuine Engagement), a college initiative that prepares employees to lead meaningful dialogue across Montgomery College.

Protect Your Peace is not a lecture. It is a structured conversation where participants can pause, share perspectives, and explore what it means to stay engaged while also protecting their wellbeing.

Together we will reflect on questions such as what disrupts our sense of peace at work, what protecting our peace looks like in practice, and how we support one another as colleagues.

You will leave with new connections, space to reflect, and practical insight into how dialogue can strengthen our community. We hope you will join us.

Register for the virtual session here: https://montgomerycollege.zoom.us/meeting/register/oqG0fLTuSFuW5wf3OV-0Kw

June 9, 2026 | 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | East County Education Center

Mark your calendar for a day dedicated to strengthening skills, nurturing well-being, and building community across Montgomery College.

The Professional Development Committee invites faculty and staff to join us for Learn. Grow. Belong., a one-day conference focused on the power of connection and belonging in our work and our campus culture. The day will include a keynote conversation with college leaders, interactive breakout sessions, opportunities to connect with colleagues across departments, and time to explore the East County community.

We are currently seeking presenters who would like to lead a session as part of the conference. Sessions may focus on professional growth, personal well-being, or building stronger connections across the college. If you have an idea, strategy, or experience that could help colleagues learn, grow, or feel more connected in their work, we encourage you to submit a proposal.

Details about the call for proposals is on the next page. Additional details for registration will be shared soon.

For now, save the date and consider how you might contribute to a day focused on learning, growth, and belonging at Montgomery College.

We are looking for interactive sessions focused on professional development, well-being, and building connection across Montgomery College.

Proposal deadline: April 16, 2026.

Submit your proposal here: Call for Presenters: 2026 MCRPA Conference – Fill out form (https://forms.office.com/r/1YY9w01vAw)

Each year, the Festival offers plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can try their luck at various game booths for a chance to win a prize, watch magicians perform impressive sleight-of-hand tricks, and marvel at incredible acrobatic performers who leave audiences amazed with their breathtaking skills on stage.

Several of our members tried their hand at the games, and even walked away with a few prizes! The Festival grounds were also filled with attendees dressed in elaborate Renaissance-era costumes. Many of these outfits clearly took hours of dedication and creativity to create, and they added to the immersive atmosphere of the event.

Of course, no MCRPA Renaissance Festival trip would be complete without Chucky appearing in his iconic jester suit. As usual, he delighted (and startled!) plenty of festivalgoers who couldn’t resist stopping to take a photo with him.

It was another memorable day filled with laughter, entertainment, and the timeless charm of the Renaissance Festival.

Several MCRPA members joined in for an evening filled with treats, music, and plenty of laughter. Between songs, members shared entertaining Halloween stories while warming up their vocal cords, perhaps preparing for a future appearance on American Idol!

While the treats were certainly sweet, the real highlight of the evening was the camaraderie and laughter shared among members. And of course, no Halloween karaoke night would be complete without some classic spooky tunes. Favorites like “Phantom of the Opera,” “Monster Mash,” and “Thriller” had everyone singing along.

It was a delightful way to celebrate the season and spend time together, creating memories that were far more fun than frightening.

Each MCRPA member plays an important role in our structure. Because our activities directly result from our members’ shared interests, we encourage our members to engage with MCRPA programming. Members determine the intensity and time commitment of their involvement. We realize that members have other commitments, both personal and professional. Explore our committees, events, membership and leadership team. MCRPA always welcomes suggestions for new roles and/or committees. 

https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/offices/mcrpa/