Mindy Muntean, an administrative assistant in the Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) Central Office, has been selected as the 2024-25 HCPS Support Employee of the Year.
Joined by other Central Office members outside the John M. Gandy Building, Dr. Lisa Pennycuff, Superintendent of Schools, made the surprise announcement on Tuesday, May 6. Mrs. Muntean has worked for HCPS for three years and previously worked at Pocahontas Elementary School in Powhatan County for more than 20 years.
“Receiving this recognition is an incredible honor. I am grateful and proud to be part of HCPS. I work with some amazing staff members, not only at Central Office, but across the entire school division,” she said. “This award inspires me to keep learning and growing with HCPS.”
She added: “I just want to thank everyone that nominated me for this award. It is truly humbling. I also want to thank those that believe in me and help me grow each and every day.”
Mrs. Muntean helps organize and plan many events for middle and high school students and staff, including graduation, Hanover Salutes, the Superintendent’s Secondary Student Advisory Panel. Always willing to lend a helping hand, Mrs. Muntean assists with other events and activities throughout the school division.
“I LOVE my job!!! I have so many favorite parts of my job. Probably the most favorite part of my job is when I can make one of our employees feel appreciated and special,” Mrs. Muntean said. “I love coming up with ways to show gratitude for all that they do. Whether it is the smallest token of appreciation, to the largest, I truly love to spread joy and kindness to those around me.”
Dr. Robert Staley, Director of Secondary Education, said Mrs. Muntean is deserving of the recognition “because of her outstanding commitment to our school division and exceptional approach to serving all members of the HCPS community.”
“Mrs. Muntean is well known and respected at the division and school level for her expertise, responsiveness, kindness, and dependability and is truly a difference maker because she always goes above and beyond to support students, parents, staff, and administrators,” he said.
HCPS employs more than 1,000 support employees in order to accomplish its mission. Each year, one employee wins this distinguished award. It is given to an employee who exhibits several qualities, such as: provides unique and exceptional contributions to the school division; demonstrates commitment through quality job performance and a positive attitude; demonstrates leadership; seeks to enhance their skills and knowledge; and, fosters cooperation and positive relationships with colleagues, students, teachers, administrators, and the school community.