2008 Woodie Flowers Award
The definition of a mentor is a wise and trusted teacher; the definition of a FIRST mentor is one who extraordinarily excels at teaching engineering and design principles. On Team Mercury, we have many amazing mentors, but Mr. Chris Gregory surpasses all others in these areas. By relating to students, he becomes an essential component at all team functions. He motivates and constructively involves our students, teaching them the skills for success. Dedicating his time and money, and devoting himself entirely to FIRST, Mr. Gregory is a true role model for all mentors and students. An inspirational and enthusiastic leader, Gregory has become an integral part of the team. He bonds with each member and keeps the team working positively and productively together. Using humor to motivate, he effectively delegates responsibilities and multitasks. He is constantly teaching new concepts, and encouraging the team to develop their own prototypes and designs. “Instead of giving us some wood and saying „build us a box,‟ they‟re handing us power tools and saying now make us something cool.” Gregory understands how to reach teenagers; this quote about FIRST is a perfect example. Without his supportive speeches and joyful displays of passion, students would not have the confidence and motivation to work to the best of their abilities. By leading the team and providing students with unique opportunities, Mr. Gregory is the glue that holds the team together. This year, Mr. G had the team build a prototype base to teach each student mechanics and driving skills. Students received hands-on learning opportunities, became more involved with the machine, and both new and old members bonded together. Always interested in getting everyone involved, Mr. Gregory made certain each student‟s opinions and ideas were heard. Before making any final team decisions, t-shirt layout, the annual team theme, or the final robot design, he accepted alternative
ideas and held a team vote. Mr. Gregory is an excellent example of the tireless dedication that influences all team members. He has always put the team first, going so far as to plan his own wedding around the team‟s first ever Championship Event! On sick days, he posts on our forum system, keeping us motivated and engaged in our current projects although we can‟t physically meet. Even his stipend, given to compensate him for all his hours of hard work, is donated back to the team to help offset trip costs for our students. His credit cards are constantly strained by team costs; airfare, button supplies, and robot parts are among some of the bills he covers. Gregory truly goes above and beyond normal advisor responsibilities to guarantee we continue to succeed as a team. Providing an exemplary model by practicing gracious professionalism, he portrays all the values and ideals of FIRST. Mr. G invites the team to participate in new activities: he drove students to volunteer at the 2008 NJ FTC Championship Tournament. Previous WFA winner, Wayne Cokeley, had this to say, "Since Chris Gregory was infected with "FIRST Fever," he has started an epidemic of excitement in the central NJ area." Mr. Gregory has shown his passion and excitement about FIRST to everyone, not just the students on his team. He was even honored by the Professional Engineers Society of Mercer and recognized by our Board of Education. He sparks passion in those he encounters and inspires enthusiasm for science, technology, and communication. Without Mr. Chris Gregory over one hundred students wouldn‟t be where they are today: pursuing their interest in science, technology, and engineering.