Post by Karyn Sypes, GCC Adjunct Representative
“Teaching is not just a job—it’s a calling. These adjuncts answer it every day with heart, skill, and dedication.”
Adjunct professors are the backbone of many academic programs. Often juggling multiple roles, they show up with compassion, flexibility, and passion for their students. Each year, the Maricopa County Community College District and the Adjunct Faculty Group (AFG), hosted by the Maricopa Center for Learning and Innovation (MCLI), recognize up to three outstanding adjunct faculty members from each of the ten colleges for their exceptional contributions to the District and its students.
Based on their history of giving tirelessly to students, candidates are nominated by college leadership, administrators, fellow faculty, and students. The finalists are selected based on their competency in three areas: teaching, innovation, and professionalism. Congratulations to Fritz Mickadeit (Chemistry), Andrea Beltran (Nursing), and Greg Patrenos (Art & Photography) for being selected as GCC’s Outstanding Adjuncts for 2025! They were honored at an award celebration on Friday, April 18th, 2025 at the Rio Salado Conference Center.
🧪 Fritz Mickadeit – Chemistry’s Go-To Guy and Invaluable Team Player

📅 Years Teaching: Since 2011
Fritz is a cornerstone of the GCC Chemistry Department. Even while teaching high school full-time, he handled multiple college sections each semester. Now retired from his day job, he’s become the department’s go-to sub, tackling even the toughest-to-staff sessions—like Saturday lectures and labs—with ease.
His versatility in covering nearly any chemistry course and his ongoing support for events like “Chemistry Day” make him a true department hero.
“Fritz is stellar—active, student-centric, and compassionate. He’s a joy to work with and truly beloved by students and staff alike.”
— Chemistry Department Chair
🩺 Andrea Beltran – A Steady Hand in Nursing Clinical
Starting nursing school can be nerve-wracking, but Andrea Beltran makes the transition smoother for her students. With kindness, clarity, and unwavering patience, she supports students through their first real-world experiences in clinical settings. Whether explaining procedures or offering a listening ear, she empowers her students with confidence and competence.
“With Professor Beltran, I knew I had someone in my corner. She made me feel like I could succeed—even when things got tough.”
— First-year Nursing Student
🎨 Greg Patrenos – Fostering Creativity, Community, and Craft
Greg isn’t just teaching art—he’s creating a vibrant, inclusive community. As a metalsmithing instructor, he empowers students to explore their creativity, refine their craft, and find their own artistic voice. Whether it’s through student art shows, guest speakers, or helping secure symposium scholarships, Greg goes the extra mile—every time.
“Greg gives us the skills and confidence to grow our own style. His class is my favorite of all time.”
— Art Student
🎉 Celebrating the Unsung Heroes of the Classroom
These three incredible adjuncts remind us that excellence in teaching doesn’t depend on titles or tenure. It depends on heart, commitment, and the willingness to show up for students—again and again.
To Fritz, Andrea, and Greg—and every adjunct pouring their passion into teaching:
We see you. We celebrate you. And we thank you.
