Alumni Award Winners
Andrew Hunzeker
CLASS OF 2008
Since 2011, Andrew Hunzeker has served as Outreach Services Manager for EducationQuest Foundation in Scottsbluff, helping students and families across western and central Nebraska explore college and navigate financial aid. A proud Scottsbluff native and WNCC alumnus, Andrew led Student Government, studied abroad in Ecuador and Peru, and participated in theater and music at WNCC. He transferred to Chadron State College, where he earned a degree in Business Administration . Deeply committed to his community, he volunteers locally and cherishes time with family. Known for his warmth, humor, and big heart, Andrew brings positivity to every room he enters.
The Pilkington Family
The Pilkington family’s connection to Western Nebraska Community College spans generations of learning and community spirit. It began with Donald “Jess” and Dorothy (Kramer) Pilkington, 1948 graduates of Scottsbluff Junior College, whose love of education inspired their family. Their son, Jess Jr., attended Nebraska Western College in the 1970s, followed by his wife, Joni (Eskam), and their daughters JaCee and JaLee. Jess’s brother Brian and wife Linda (Fitts) also began at NWC, later earning degrees from Chadron State, with their four children continuing the WNCC tradition. For the Pilkingtons, WNCC represents family, friendship, and a lifelong love of learning.
Jodi Ruzicka
CLASS OF 1995
Jodi Ruzicka, a lifelong Scottsbluff-Gering resident, built a career in banking while raising two daughters, showing them the value of education firsthand. She earned her Associate of Arts from WNCC in 1995 and later a Bachelor of Science from Chadron State College. Now a Financial Advisor with Platte Valley Investment Center, Jodi finds fulfillment helping clients plan for the future. Her dedication extends to the community, serving on the WNCC Foundation Board and volunteering locally. Jodi and her husband, Tim, enjoy family time with their daughters and grandchildren, cherishing moments of connection and service.
Merlyn "Mert" Davis
Merlyn “Mert” Davis spent a lifetime shaping young minds and building community. A Scottsbluff native and 1950 graduate, he served in the U.S. Air Force before earning his teaching degree from Creighton University. Mert taught at Scottsbluff High School before spending 36 years at Nebraska Western College, coaching state champions in track and inspiring countless students to pursue teaching. Summers were devoted to serving as a park ranger and historian at Scotts Bluff National Monument. He and his wife, Evelyn, raised three children, had nine grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. Mert cherished family, sports, stories, and ice cream.
Karen Anderson
Karen Anderson’s life was shaped early by her mother’s simple advice: “Get an education and don’t clean up everyone’s mess—use your brain.” Growing up in the Black Hills, Karen learned independence and perseverance, walking everywhere while working to support herself through vocational school. She built a remarkable career, including 26 years as Executive Director of the Scottsbluff/Gering Chamber of Commerce and serving on the Western Community College Area Board of Governors. Known for her humor, warmth, and adventurous spirit, Karen also served as an Episcopal priest, completed a YMCA triathlon, donated blood generously, and cherishes her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.