North Platte College Honors 15 Students and Staff

Students and staff at North Platte Community College gathered Monday afternoon for a celebration that proves hard work and dedication still get noticed.

The Nebraska school's 2026 Honors Convocation honored 15 individuals across multiple disciplines, from technical trades to healthcare to the arts. The awards recognize not just classroom success but leadership and community service that extends beyond campus walls.

William Anderson took home the top honor, the Presidential Award, for excellence in academics, leadership, and service. Meanwhile, Zoe Maher earned the Vice President of Instruction Award for her classroom achievement and commitment to learning. Jazlyn Richardson received the Vice President of Student Services Award for outstanding student leadership.

Division awards celebrated specialized excellence across nearly every program the college offers. Ashton Schiel earned recognition in diesel technology while Nathan McMullen and Brody Nordhausen stood out in electrical programs. McKenzie Engelhaupt excelled in agribusiness and Chloe Bear Killer in graphic design.

Healthcare students Iris Robles (dental) and Ann Gous (nursing) received top honors in their fields. In liberal arts, Susan Shepard earned recognition in visual and performing arts while Alexandra Blackwell excelled in social science. Albert Carrillo and Leandra Chapman Schiel rounded out student awards in mathematics and science.

The ceremony also celebrated two employees who go above and beyond. Bryan Herrick, an automotive instructor, received the Faculty Achievement in Student Success Award for his commitment to helping students succeed and stay in school. Ben Schmidt, assistant director of safety and security, earned the Professional Achievement in Student Support Award for similar dedication.

The Ripple Effect

Recognition ceremonies like this one create momentum that extends far beyond a single afternoon. When colleges publicly celebrate achievement, they send a clear message about what matters: effort, service, and lifting others up.

These award recipients will carry their recognition into careers where they'll serve their communities as skilled technicians, healthcare providers, business leaders, and creative professionals. Their example also inspires younger students still finding their path, showing that dedication gets noticed and rewarded.

North Platte's investment in celebrating both students and staff demonstrates a culture that values growth at every level.