By WNCC
SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (November 13, 2026) - Western Nebraska Community College hosted the 13th annual Alumni & Friends banquet and awards ceremony, in Scottsbluff on October 24.
WNCC's Alumni committee presented five awards at this year's banquet, including the Outstanding Young Alumnus, Family Pride, Outstanding Alumnus, Lifetime Achievement, and Tom & Cara Perkins Friend of the College.
"As the Alumni Director, I am privileged to connect with former WNCC students both far and wide," WNCC Alumni & Stewardship Director Mary Sheffield said. "WNCC has a special place in the hearts of so many. It is an honor, each year, to recognize a few individuals and businesses that do so much to serve the college and our mission."
The Outstanding Young Alumnus award recognizes a graduate of WNCC younger than 40 years old who is a rising star in their career field and has shown dedication to community service. The Outstanding Young Alumnus Award was presented to April Hieatt. After graduating from WNCC, she earned advanced degrees in criminal justice and clinical counseling. She opened Unleashed Counseling in Scottsbluff in 2023. She also advocates for cancer research and community health through the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Even throughout her own cancer diagnosis in 2025, she held steadfast in her service to others.
The Family Pride award is given to a family with at least two generations that have attended or graduated from WNCC. This year, the Family Pride award was presented to the Schwarzkopf family. Beginning in the 1960s with Gene and Mari, the family’s legacy continued through their children, Brenda, Scott, and Stacy, and their grandchildren. Family members attended WNCC, participated in athletics, earned degrees, and built careers in education. Their commitment extended beyond the classroom through the WNCC Dorm Parent program, welcoming student-athletes into their homes and creating lasting friendships. The Schwarzkopf family’s dedication to education, athletics, and supporting students reflects a tradition of Cougar pride at WNCC.
The Outstanding Alumnus Award goes to a graduate that has been successful in their career and has made significant contributions to the community. Siaka Sanneh, accepted the 2026 Outstanding Alumnus Award. Originally from The Gambia in West Africa, Sanneh began his nursing career at Western Nebraska Community College, earning his associate degree in nursing in 2013. He continued his education, earning bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in nursing. He completed an emergency medicine fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he now works as an Emergency Nurse Practitioner. Passionate about rural healthcare and education, he has gained international experience in Kenya, Vietnam, and Ghana while helping train future healthcare professionals.
"To all young people here, especially those from far away international students, do not let your challenges defy your direction," Sanneh said. "Persevere, work hard, be kind to people and know the sky is not the limit."
The Lifetime Achievement award is given to a WNCC faculty, staff, or alumnus who has demonstrated a lasting commitment of service to the mission and community of WNCC. The 2026 was posthumously awarded to Paula J. Abbott. Abbott dedicated 25 years to higher education, including 15 years as Executive Director of WNCC's Sidney Campus. Abbott was passionate about helping students and strengthening communities. One of her proudest accomplishments was helping establish the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center, supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. Known for her kindness, positivity, and unwavering belief in others, she was a mentor, friend, and advocate for student success.
The Tom & Cara Perkins Friend of the College Award is given to a person, organization, or business that has demonstrated a commitment to the educational advancement of people in the Panhandle. The 2026 Tom & Cara Perkins Friend of the College award winner went to Gary Warner. A Scottsbluff native raised in Gering, began his education at Scottsbluff College, now WNCC, before earning a Petroleum Engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines. After working in the oil industry, Warner returned to Gering in 1972 and established Western Ranch Products, which he operated with his wife, Deanne, until 2000. He joined the WNCC Board of Governors in 1976, serving 20 years, and later became a longtime WNCC Foundation Board member. For more than 50 years, his dedication to education, community service, and supporting WNCC has helped shape opportunities for students across western Nebraska.
Reflecting on his 71-year connection to WNCC, Warner spoke about the college's transformation and the dedication of those who helped build it.
“How that could grow into something like we have out at the college today is just unbelievable. It took a lot of hard work ... I can only imagine how many good things lie ahead."
The WNCC Alumni Association has presented awards for the last 13 years. To nominate an individual, family, or business for an Alumni award, visit go.wncc.edu/alumni. If you would like more information on how you can be a part of the WNCC Alumni Association which hosts this event and many others, contact Sheffield at alumni@wncc.edu, or call 308-630-6571.
About Western Nebraska Community College