Holmes Receives UW/CC Center Education Award

Wade Holmes, a senior in the elementary education program through the University of Wyoming/Casper College (UW/CC) Center, recently was presented the Sue Jorgensen Excellent Student in Education Award.

The award’s 17th recipient, Holmes received scholarship funding from John Jorgensen, husband of the late educator whom the award memorializes, which was matched by the Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES).

Jorgensen created the award in 1996, honoring UW/CC Center education students who earn a minimum 3.5 grade point average, exhibit professional disposition toward mentors and peers, contribute to the education field through leadership and community service, and display a positive attitude to promote excitement and curiosity about learning.

Holmes was nominated and unanimously selected by the UW/CC Center’s education faculty and staff. He will graduate in May with a bachelor’s degree, and hopes to teach in the Natrona County School District.

The distinction is one of the center’s highest honors bestowed upon prospective teachers. It was established by Jorgensen to pay tribute to the memory of his wife and the UW/CC Center’s first teacher education program coordinator, Sue Jorgensen. 

“Sue was a tremendous advocate for students who wanted to get an education,” recalled Jorgensen at the recent award ceremony. “She turned out good teachers in Casper, who are now helping other students to become good teachers.”

Brent Pickett, associate dean and director of the UW/CC Center, acknowledged the special role that Sue Jorgensen played in education and leadership. He also spoke of the role of others in furthering educational opportunities in the Casper area.

“We deeply appreciate John and his support to UW/CC Center students in education, as well as BOCES, who has helped to support our elementary education program in the past, and who is now assisting both our technical education and secondary science education, biology programs,” Pickett said.