News – Sheridan Media
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Sheridan College faculty and staff recently gathered to honor the 2025-26 Excellence Awards winners.
Each year, these awards recognize exceptional contributions from students, classified and administrative staff, and faculty members, all of whom are nominated by their peers and whose efforts overwhelmingly support the goals and mission of Sheridan College.
This year’s award recipients include Gabe Purdum, Student of the Year; Jennifer Nichols, Faculty of the Year; Amy Roe, Classified Employee of the Year; Jacob Hirschman, Administrative Employee of the Year; and Wade Kinsey, Adjunct Faculty of the Year.
Sheridan College welding and construction technology student, Gabe Purdum, was honored as Student of the Year.
Purdum is involved in numerous aspects of campus life at the college, serving as a student employee in the Golden Dome, a Student Ambassador and campus tour guide, an active member of Phi Theta Kappa, vice president of the Student Government Association, a former Resident Assistant, and current member of the Pro-Staff team.
Nominators applaud his helpfulness and say he, “always chooses the most ethical approach in every situation and makes sure all students feel seen and heard.”
Jennifer Nichols, recognized as Faculty of the Year, has been an instructor of math at Sheridan College for nine years.
She is highly regarded by students, staff and peers and was nominated for her genuine commitment and care for her students.
One nominator stated that, “Each semester, when students submit faculty shout-outs, the number of responses naming Jennifer Nichols as the reason they are still in school is truly remarkable.” Nichols’ calm and steady guidance was credited with helping students navigate mathematics with confidence instead of the anxiety often associated with the subject.
Amy Roe was honored as Classified Employee of the Year.
She has been a custodian at Sheridan College for the past 11 years.
Staff who nominated her note that she “treats every student, staff member and visitor with kindness and dignity.” Amy’s infectious positivity and dedication to the job were cited as traits that contribute to the comfortable, joyful and productive environment valued by all members of the Sheridan College community.
With eight years of service at Sheridan College, Kinnison Hall Technical Director Jake Hirschman received the Administrative Employee of the Year award.
Nominating staff members note that:
“Jake is on hand at all hours and in all aspects of every show held in Kinnison hall, from designing lighting and sound systems to running rehearsals and assisting visiting artists and faculty. In addition to his work during shows, the lifelong musician manages student employees and directs a summer Music Technology camp, sharing his expertise with current and potential students.”
Wade Kinsey was recognized as Adjunct Faculty of the Year for his excellence as a part of the college’s Health and Human Performance area, where he teaches coaching.
Kinsey started teaching at Sheridan College one year ago and has quickly proven himself to be an excellent addition to the team.
Nominators cited his skill in meeting students where they are academically and his dedication to ensuring they succeed.
President Walt Tribley expressed gratitude for all Sheridan College staff and faculty, stating that the excellence awards are representative.
“We are incredibly proud of this year’s recipients, and equally grateful for every employee who shows up each day with dedication to our students. Their collective commitment is what makes Sheridan College such an exceptional place.”
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Last modified: January 24, 2026