JCC Holds Annual Etiquette and Networking Event

Jefferson Community College (JCC) Career Services hosted its Annual Evening of Etiquette and Networking on November 6, 2024. The event welcomed participants from JCC’s Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP), TRIO Strategies to Achieve Results (TRIO), and Advancing Success in Associate Pathways (ASAP) Program, as well as student leaders. The event focused on imparting lifelong skills, delivering valuable insights to support students' personal growth and professional development. 

St. Lawrence County native Brittany Matott, Etiquette and Protocol Consultant and founder of Brittany Matott Seminars, served as the event’s moderator again this year. "So many of us are not exposed to these practices until we need to use them and I applaud JCC for their commitment to life skills training for their students,” said Matott. “Etiquette and protocol isn't just about manners, it's about cultural competency, communication and above all, kindness to your fellow human being.” 

Building on this perspective, Michele Gefell, Director of Career Services at JCC, said, "Developing a strong foundation in fine dining and networking is not just about looking polished; it's about helping our students see the importance of professionalism and refining their interpersonal skills that will serve them well in their future careers. Employers are not only seeking individuals with technical expertise but also those who can communicate effectively, build relationships, and represent their organizations with self-confidence. By mastering these social graces, our students not only enhance their personal lives but also position themselves as valuable assets in today's competitive job market as well as members of the community.”

This emphasis on professionalism and preparedness resonated with students, including business major and ASAP student Tabitha Duerr of Alexandria Bay. She said, “Learning and practicing the skills on how to enjoy a professional meal (or drinks) appropriately will help send a strong, positive first impression. This is a great hands-on learning activity and fabulous confidence booster.” 

Career Services at Jefferson launched its inaugural etiquette seminar in 2017 and has continued to build on its success ever since.

In Front: Brittany Matott, Etiquette and Protocol Consultant (middle), Karyschmary Melendez-Aristud (right) of Theresa.    

First row (l-r): Keith Bell of Chaumont, Harry Scott of Lisbon, Carson Chambers of Gouverneur, Ryan Landphere of Sandy Creek, Lillian Edwards of Fort Drum, Ella Valentine of Watertown.

Second row (l-r): Raven Streebel of Fort Drum, Carly Overton of Castorland, Courage Mbonifon of Framingham, MA, Kirsten Pratt of Watertown, Rachael Laboy Moran of Watertown.  

Third row (l-r): Tabitha Duerr of Alexandria Bay, Reanna Dorsch of Pulaski, Sharon Moore of Theresa, Isaiah Evans of Dexter, Samantha Stewart of Watertown, Amanda Hugelmann of Fort Drum.  

Top row (on right, l-r): Marcos Cruz of Watertown, Ben Ramer of Watertown.  

Missing from photo: Kaylee Simmons-Noel of Heuvelton.