Employees of the Month Bisnath John

Bisnath John

Buildings and Grounds

After 11 years as a maintenance worker turned painter in the Buildings and Grounds department at Kingsborough Community College, Employee of the Month (EOTM) Bisnath John still finds satisfaction in painting a room until it feels new again, seeing others enjoy the results, and being part of a team that feels like family.

His role covers everything from maintaining the paint in classrooms and offices to working on larger projects both inside and outside campus buildings. For him, painting is more than a task: it’s a craft that helps create a welcoming space for students, faculty, and staff. “I always loved working with my hands, which made skilled trades a great fit for me,” he said.

He first came to Kingsborough after hearing about its strong community. “I heard great things about Kingsborough and wanted to be a part of their great team,” said Bisnath. That sense of teamwork is something he still values today. “Kingsborough staff is like an extension of my family.”

His coworker, Thomas Degrezia, nominated Bisnath as EOTM because he sees him as someone who goes above and beyond in his work. “Bisnath is a very capable and efficient expert painter, with high ethical standards, who sets a high bar for quality and reliability,” Tom wrote in his recommendation. “He is willing to go the extra mile when necessary to complete projects assigned.”

He noted that Bisnath serves as a role model for temporary painters hired during the summer, helping to plan their tasks and guide them to completing them in a timely manner. He also created a paint color system that makes it easier for workers to access the products they need.

Bisnath said the most meaningful part of his work is seeing the reactions of students, faculty and staff when everything comes together. One of his favorite KCC experiences was helping restore the iconic orange Shimoda sculpture, “Ascension,” in the roundabout near the A Building. “I love to see the beauty of a finished product and how a job well done was appreciated by my peers.”

Watching students succeed also helps keep him motivated. “It’s inspiring to work in a place and see many of our students being educated and bettering their lives through education, knowing that many of them will become future leaders in our community.”

When he’s not painting at the College, you’ll find him fishing or relaxing with his family, recharging for another day of the work that he enjoys.

Bisnath believes that effort and a good attitude are what make a difference—not just for yourself, but for everyone around you. “Keep your head up high and give it your all every day, and results will follow.”