Honke, Schram Granted Emeritus Status At Northeast Community College

NORFOLK - Northeast Community College has honored two long-time employees for their service to the institution.

Northeast President Leah Barrett granted Mary Honke and Steve Scharm the distinction of being named Interim President Emeritus as her first act as the new president. Barrett says the recognition comes with the responsibility of continuing a relationship with the school that may include program development, student advisement, or part-time teaching.

Honke previously served as executive vice president of Northeast until her retirement in March 2017. In her role, she oversaw an integrated program of activities and services to assist the college in fulfilling its mission and vision, and served as a key advisor to the president on institutional advancements and effectiveness issues.

Schram is a former vice president of administrative services, and retired from his position in 2008. Schram has continued to serve the college as a special projects consultant, which has included administering construction projects.

The pair most recently served as co-interim president in the latter half of 2019 as Northeast searched for a new president. Barrett says both will continue to support her on-boarding by providing history and perspective.

“Emeritus status is an honor in higher education that recognizes employees for years of meritorious service to an institution - for Northeast that is more than 15 years of service. It is our highest honor for employees,” Barrett said in presenting the distinction. “Mary Honke and Steve Schram have committed to this continuing relationship with Northeast Community College to not only support me, but the board of governors, faculty, staff, students and constituents as well."