MAC theater coordinator awarded Champion of Excellence for maintaining program amid cuts

Key Takeaways:

• MAC has achieved salary equity for staff in the 2025-2026 academic year.
• Theater coordinator Amanda Dement was named a Champion of Excellence.
• Dement kept the program operational amid budget cuts in 2021.
• “They’re all being paid what they should…” underscores the new pay standards.
• The news was first reported by Daily Journal Online on October 22, 2025.

MAC’s Milestone in Salary Equity

Mineral Area College’s Board of Trustees announced that the institution reached a long-anticipated goal of salary equity for all staff, effective in the 2025-2026 academic year. According to the board, “They’re all being paid what they should…” underscores a significant step toward fair compensation. This move aims to boost morale, retention, and support across various departments.

Champion of Excellence: Recognizing Theater Leadership

In the same meeting, the Board honored theater coordinator Amanda Dement with the Champion of Excellence award. This distinction celebrates her commitment to fostering creative expression and educational growth at MAC.

Keeping Theater Alive Amid Widespread Cuts

Amanda Dement’s recognition comes after she navigated the theater department through harsh budget cuts in 2021 that endangered its survival. Under her leadership, the program remained active, allowing students and the broader community to continue enjoying performances and theater education opportunities despite financial challenges.

A Community College’s Commitment to Its People

Both the move to salary equity and the award for exceptional service reinforce MAC’s broader mission to invest in people—instructors, staff, and students alike. From the classroom to the stage, the college’s recent moves exemplify a dedication to recognizing excellence while ensuring equity for its workforce.