Darla Hagerman receives CSEA Professional Excellence Award for commitment to students
Darla Hagerman’s path through Yuba College has come full circle. Once a student walking the campus, she now helps guide others through their own educational journeys. As an instructional associate, Hagerman’s days are filled with tutoring support, campus involvement and a deep commitment to student success. Now, the college will recognize her for that dedication.
Hagerman has been named the recipient of the California Schools Employee Association (CSEA) Professional Excellence Award, an honor selected through nominations and votes from fellow college employees. The award recognizes classified staff members who demonstrate outstanding professionalism, dedication and service.
Hagerman’s nominators shared that she brings positivity and enthusiasm everywhere she goes. She is described as a champion for student success, she designs equitable strategies for tutoring, Cultural Heritage Calendar displays and is the first to volunteer for campus events, including Welcome Week and College Info Day. She is an active member of Caring Campus, an initiative that fosters a welcoming and supportive environment for students, and has served on multiple hiring committees.
For Hagerman, the award is both humbling and energizing.
“I’m so excited and honored to receive this Excellence Award,” she said. “It means a lot to have my hard work recognized by people I genuinely admire and respect. This award is a wonderful reminder of my journey and gives me a nice boost of confidence. It inspires me to keep pushing forward and to continue creating an inclusive and welcoming environment at Yuba College.”
Hagerman has worked full-time at the college for the past three years, and in that time, she’s seen just how much growth is possible, both in students and in herself.
“My time at Yuba College has been the most rewarding time of my life,” she said. “I have seen the growth in the students and know that I am making a difference. The faculty and staff are so supportive. I’m so blessed to work with such amazing people while doing something I’m passionate about.”
That passion shines through in everything she does, especially in the environment she strives to create for students.
“My favorite aspect of my job is the opportunity to create a friendly and motivating environment where students can recognize their potential and feel accepted,” Hagerman said. “There is something truly rewarding about being what you need as a student for someone else and seeing the impact you make when students realize they can make it.”
Like many student-focused roles, Hagerman’s work comes with emotional challenges, especially when students are facing challenges.
“Yuba College has a diverse student population and many struggle in their personal lives,” she said. “It is heart-wrenching to see them doubt their ability to achieve their dreams. I’ve learned to remind myself that emotions are often temporary. My role isn’t to fix their problems, but to empower them by letting them know Yuba College cares enough to offer resources to help them succeed.”
Her dedication is deeply personal. As a non-traditional and first-generation college student, Hagerman knows the transformative power of education.
“Pursuing my education has truly changed my life for the better,” she said. “Now, I’m excited to give back to the community and the college that helped me along the way.”
Her inspiration also comes from those around her. She credits both the Caring Campus Committee and the YC tutoring team for keeping her motivated.
“Being part of the committee allows me to witness some exciting changes occurring beyond my own department,” she said. “And I feel fortunate to work with such supportive and fantastic coworkers. Their encouragement and teamwork brighten my day. Together, we create a positive atmosphere that makes me excited to come to work every day!”
Hagerman is also known for being the first to raise her hand when help is needed at campus events, something she sees as another way to reach students where they are.
“I enjoy volunteering because it allows me to connect with a diverse group of students and share valuable resources with them,” she said. “There is often a significant stigma surrounding tutoring. I seize every chance to challenge and change that perception.”
Through every event, every conversation and every act of support, Hagerman is building something lasting: a campus community where students feel seen, supported and encouraged.
And now, with the CSEA Professional Excellence Award in hand, she is reminded that her efforts are making a real difference.