Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) proudly recognizes Jay Franzen, Computer/IT Student Services Analyst, and Jenny Cruz, Business/IT Administrative Specialist Sr. as recipients of the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award. The NISOD award is one of the Maricopa County Community College District’s highest honors, celebrating exceptional commitment to student success, innovation, and service.
Both honorees will be recognized on the national stage at the 48th annual NISOD Conference next month in Austin, Texas. As the premier gathering dedicated to inspiring higher education professionals, the conference brings together faculty, staff, and administrators from across the country and beyond for dynamic sessions, hands-on workshops, and powerful keynote presentations – all centered on advancing student success and strengthening teaching and leadership.
For Franzen, this recognition is deeply personal, saying, “I am deeply honored and grateful to receive this award. As a first-generation and non-traditional student, I know firsthand how intimidating higher education can feel. When I was navigating my own path, it was the support of dedicated advisors, educators, and peers who helped me see my own potential.
“To receive the NISOD Excellence Award is incredibly humbling, because it tells me that I am now doing for others what was once done for me,” he continued. “This recognition isn't just about my work; it's a reflection of every student who walks into my office or classroom looking for guidance, and trusting me to help them find their way.”
Franzen works as both an Academic Advisor (Student Services Analyst) and Adjunct Faculty member, roles in which he has made a lasting impact over the past five years. A dedicated higher education professional with more than 12 years of experience within the district, he brings both expertise and empathy to his work. He is a graduate of Arizona State University and earned his Master’s in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Public Service and Public Policy.
Franzen’s anonymous nominee described him as the embodiment of PVCC’s commitment to care, belonging, and student success, saying, “Jay is widely respected for his courteous, professional, and respectful interactions with students and colleagues. In every interaction, he creates a welcoming, respectful environment where students feel safe, heard, and valued. His professionalism and steady demeanor contribute directly to a culture of care, ensuring students experience advising as a partnership grounded in trust, respect, and belonging.”
Franzen’s responsiveness and thoughtful communication help students navigate complex academic pathways with confidence, especially those balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. He is known for his unique blend of warmth and accountability, and challenges students to take ownership of their educational journey while providing the guidance and tools they need to succeed. His advising is developmental, focused not just on immediate needs, but on building long-term skills in planning, decision-making, and self-advocacy.
Beyond one-on-one advising, Jay contributes to the broader student experience by collaborating with faculty on scheduling and program insights and by actively engaging in campus events such as New Student Orientation and Festival of Tales. His presence helps cultivate a sense of connection and belonging that extends far beyond the advising office.
PVCC’s other honoree, Jenny Cruz, was nominated for her unwavering commitment to her division and the broader PVCC community. “She leads with grace and discretion, never engaging in gossip and always remaining conscientious of how her decisions, needs, or preferences may affect others,” said her anonymous nominee.
Cruz began her career with the Maricopa County Community College District in 2008 and joined PVCC in 2019 as an Administrative Specialist Sr. in the Business/IT Division. Starting just before the pandemic, she credits strong leadership and teamwork for guiding the division through a time of rapid change and growth. With the support of colleagues, Cruz and her team not only navigated challenges but also strengthened programs, improved processes, and expanded opportunities for students.
“I am very thankful to be considered for this prestigious award. It was something I didn’t expect,” she said. “Every day, I feel blessed to come to a job I love, on a beautiful campus, supported by strong leadership, and surrounded by such outstanding colleagues in the Business/IT Division. It is a privilege to serve our students and the PVCC community.”
Cruz’s nomination emphasized her exceptional professionalism, integrity, and quiet leadership. She consistently models respect, compassion, and emotional intelligence in every interaction, helping to create a workplace where students, faculty, and staff feel valued and supported. Her calm, thoughtful presence provides reassurance to students, particularly in moments of uncertainty, fostering a sense of belonging that is essential to their success.
Cruz’s impact is also deeply operational. She brings remarkable attention to detail to everything from class scheduling and coordination to book orders and internal processes, often identifying and resolving issues before they arise. Her commitment to continuous learning, through professional development, conferences, and training, ensures she is always improving her ability to serve others. Colleagues also point to her resilience and dedication, noting her reliability and perseverance even during personal challenges, and her unwavering focus on supporting students and the division.
Together, Franzen and Cruz represent the heart of PVCC, dedicated to uplifting students, strengthening programs, and building community through their daily work. Their recognition as NISOD Excellence Award recipients is a testament not only to their individual excellence but to the culture of care, respect, and belonging that defines Paradise Valley Community College.