Mike Pepe, Chanzy Mitchell, Iliana Vargas, Vernita Bowens, and Trent Theobald received the 2025-26 President’s Awards, Flagler’s highest annual recognition for staff members.
The President’s Award recognizes employee contributions that advance Flagler College’s mission through “excellence, leadership, innovation, service, and results.”
“In many ways, the President’s Award represents the pinnacle of staff recognition at Flagler College,” said Kelly Toaston, vice president of human resources and chief human resources officer.
This year’s five recipients were honored for the lasting impact they have made across the College, from guiding Flagler through major institutional change to strengthening student success, campus safety, and the experiences of those who live, work, study, and visit campus.
Mike Pepe | Director of Budgets
Mike Pepe was recognized for his steady leadership during a period of significant organizational change at Flagler College.
Pepe helped guide the College through its transition to a new enterprise resource planning system and led the successful completion of the College’s annual audit. Managing either responsibility would have been a substantial undertaking, but accomplishing both simultaneously required exceptional expertise, perseverance, and commitment.
Stacey Matthews, CFO and vice president for business services, said Pepe’s approach to his work has made a meaningful difference during periods of uncertainty.
“His extensive knowledge, calm leadership, and willingness to support others have provided stability and confidence during times of uncertainty,” Matthews said. “Through his unwavering professionalism, thoughtful stewardship, and commitment to Flagler’s mission, Mike has made a profound and lasting impact on the College and those who work alongside him.”
Chanzy Mitchell | Custodial Events & Inventory Clerk
Chanzy Mitchell was honored for her consistent commitment to excellence and the impact her work has on the experience of students, employees, and visitors.
Matthews said Mitchell demonstrates that “excellence is found in the consistent, high-quality execution of everyday responsibilities.”
Through her dedication, professionalism, and attention to detail, Mitchell helps create the welcoming and beautiful environment that defines the Flagler College experience.
“Known for her dependability, positive attitude, and willingness to take on additional responsibilities, Chanzy approaches every task with pride and a deep sense of ownership,” Matthews said. “Her work ensures that students, employees, and visitors feel welcomed, respected, and valued from the moment they arrive on campus.”
Iliana Vargas | Associate Registrar
Iliana Vargas was recognized for her leadership in the Registrar’s Office and her commitment to developing and supporting those around her.
During a period of significant organizational change, Vargas continued to lead with excellence while completing an advanced degree, demonstrating a deep commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth.
Art Vanden Houten, vice president of academic affairs, said Vargas has helped strengthen the student experience while creating an environment where others can succeed.
“Colleagues consistently describe Iliana as a trusted mentor, advocate, and supervisor whose support has positively influenced employee engagement, retention, and well-being,” Vanden Houten said. “Her leadership creates an environment where students and employees alike can succeed, contribute meaningfully, and reach their full potential.”
Vernita Bowens | Director of The Career Development Center
Vernita Bowens was recognized for her visionary leadership and commitment to transforming the student experience through Career Services.
Under her guidance, employer partnerships have expanded, internship opportunities have grown, and students are graduating with greater confidence, stronger professional skills, and a clearer sense of purpose.
Tara Stevenson, vice president of student affairs, said Bowens has built meaningful relationships that create opportunities for students both during and after their time at Flagler.
“Known as a trusted collaborator, connector, and mentor, Vernita has built meaningful relationships across campus and throughout the broader community, creating opportunities that benefit students long after graduation,” Stevenson said.
Through her dedication to transformative learning, service, and partnership, Bowens has strengthened both the student experience and the future of Flagler College.
Trent Theobald | Assistant Director of Safety & Security
Trent Theobald was honored for his proactive leadership, collaboration, and commitment to enhancing campus safety and operational excellence.
As assistant director of security, Theobald has worked to strengthen the department’s visibility and effectiveness while building valuable partnerships across campus and throughout the community. He also developed comprehensive Emergency Action Plans for major campus events, strengthening preparedness, coordination, and the overall success of some of the College’s most important gatherings.
Laura Stevenson, vice president and chief of staff, said Theobald’s approach to his work has helped create a stronger and more connected Flagler community.
“Known as a trusted partner and problem solver, he approaches every initiative with a spirit of service and teamwork that inspires confidence and trust,” Stevenson said. “Through his vision, initiative, and dedication, Trent has helped create a safer, stronger, and more connected Flagler College community.”
While the five recipients were recognized for different contributions, Toaston said the awards collectively represent something larger about the College and its people.
“The strength of Flagler College has always been found in its people,” Toaston said. “It is the dedication, talent, and care of our faculty and staff that create extraordinary experiences for our students and make this institution such a special place to learn and work.”
To the five President’s Award recipients, Toaston offered a final message of appreciation.
“Thank you for setting a standard of excellence that inspires all of us and reflects the very best of Flagler College,” she said.
