Moberly Area Community College proudly celebrates the outstanding achievements of several members of the MACC community who were honored or named finalists at the 2025 Missouri Community College Association (MCCA) Annual Convention. Their commitment to excellence, service, and innovation highlights MACC’s mission to empower students and strengthen communities across the region.
MACC Hall of Fame Inductee: Dr. Jeff Lashley
President Emeritus Dr. Jeffery C. Lashley was inducted into the prestigious MCCA Hall of Fame, recognizing a remarkable 28-year career at MACC, including 11 years as president. Dr. Lashley’s connection to MACC spans from childhood fan to student leader, from faculty member to transformative president.
Throughout his tenure, he guided MACC through significant regional growth—expanding health sciences, strengthening early college partnerships, and introducing new workforce and technical training programs. His leadership also ushered in new Greyhound baseball and softball programs and contributed to cultural and community development across the college’s entire service area.
In honor of his lifelong dedication, MACC renamed its newest residence hall Lashley Hall in 2024. His legacy continues to shape the college’s student-centered, community-focused mission.
Distinguished Alumni Award: John Cochran
John Cochran, a former Greyhound basketball player (1974–1976), assistant coach, and long-serving MACC Board of Trustees member, received the Distinguished Alumni Award.
From athlete to coach to civic leader, Cochran has remained a vital part of MACC for decades. His work as a community insurance professional and dedicated member of the Westran Rotary Club reflects his deep commitment to service. His knowledge of MACC’s history and mission helps guide decisions that honor the college’s past while strengthening its future.
Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award: Cara Baker
MACC’s long-serving mathematics adjunct instructor Cara Baker was honored with the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award. For nearly 20 years, Baker has transformed the lives of Columbia-campus students through her compassionate and clear approach to developmental mathematics.
Her teaching helps students build confidence and skills they once believed were out of reach. Student evaluations consistently praise her support, clarity, and encouragement—qualities that have enabled countless learners to succeed in college-level math and beyond.
MACC Award Finalists
In addition to MACC’s award recipients, the college proudly recognizes several finalists whose leadership and innovation demonstrate excellence in their fields:
- Anna Blackford — Excellence in Teaching Award Finalist
- Wendy Johnson — Administrative Professional Leadership Award Finalist
- Eric Dollich — Classified Staff Achievement Award Finalist
- MACC Dual Credit Program — Innovation Award Finalist
These finalists represent the high standards of teaching, service, and educational advancement that define MACC’s impact across its communities
MACC extends heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s honorees and finalists. Their dedication exemplifies the spirit of the community college mission and the transformational power of education.


