Full-time support staff members considered for the Robert E. Turner Award are dedicated team players with exemplary work habits who are committed to the college’s mission, have a positive outlook and exude overall excellence. Donald Allen, program assistant for the Dual Credit/Enrollment programs, is the 2025 Robert E. Turner Award recipient because he possesses each of these attributes and more.
“I’m honored to have been nominated and chosen for this award, as it represents excellence in serving our Moraine Valley students and community,” Allen said. “This is such a significant award given, and I know it represents being a great example for the college by making sure students are first and being helped at the highest level.”
Allen began his career at the college in 2015 working in the Transfer Articulation Department, where he assisted four-year university representatives with planning visits to Moraine Valley, and assisted students in meeting with representatives and preparing for transfer agreement programs. He also worked the front desk at the Counseling and Career Development Center before securing his current position.
In his role, Allen serves as the liaison between Moraine Valley and high schools, coordinating efforts among high school counselors, students and parents to ensure requirements are met for participation in the Dual Credit and Dual Enrollment programs. He also is the advisor for the student Anime Club, a position that affords him additional opportunities to engage with students and deepen his interest in the animated art style, which originated in Japan. “I have a personal interest in anime, and I’m enjoying creating another environment for students to make new friends and find others who share their interests,” he said.
One of the job responsibilities that brings him the most satisfaction is connecting students and parents with the resources they need to be successful. “I understand everyone has busy lives, and parents might not always have time to fully understand every step needed to properly register. I’m able to simplify the process for them and set their minds at ease so students can be excited about the next step in their educational journey.”
Allen feels a sense of pride when he receives feedback from students, their parents and alumni.
“I’ve had students and parents come in to say thank you and even some who remembered us from semesters ago. They mentioned how it was so helpful, that they liked the service and said we made it stress-free because we helped them through the process. Hearing that kind of follow-up is great,” he said.
His nominator, Lisa Mikrut, advisor in the Academic Advising Department, said Allen is one of the most positive people she has ever met and one of the nicest people on campus. “When I met Donald, he was working part time in the Transfer Center. He always went above and beyond for the advisors who needed information about transfer schools, as well as for the students who had any number of questions,” Mikrut said.
She called him an asset to the college. “He has helped countless students and their parents with questions regarding Dual Credit and Dual Enrollment programs. Working with high school and college parents can be challenging, but Donald always does so with a smile on his face. He immediately answers any questions I have to help students. He also is an advisor for Anime Club, showcasing his wide range of knowledge in various fields,” she said.
Allen reiterated his gratitude for receiving this award. “A great team and work environment contribute to excellent service,” he said. “I’d like to thank all of the leadership that has helped me throughout my almost 10 years at Moraine Valley.”