Cowley College Announces 2026 Spring Semester Tiger Heart Award Recipient

Cowley College is proud to announce Wendy Neal, Financial Aid and Scholarship Specialist, as the 2026 Spring Semester Tiger Heart Award recipient. The Tiger Heart Award is a traveling honor that recognizes employees who exemplify compassion, selflessness, and a commitment to helping others succeed.

The award was presented by Meg Smith, Director of Mass Communications at Cowley College and the Fall 2025 Tiger Heart Award recipient. Smith shared that selecting this semester’s honoree was no easy task.

“There are so many amazing people working at Cowley, it was tough to narrow it down to one person to be recognized for this traveling award,” Smith said. “The cool thing about receiving and bestowing this award is that it makes you reflect on all the thoughtful interactions you have with the people around you each day.”

Smith explained that after considering numerous departments, kind deeds, and thoughtful acts across campus, one individual consistently stood out.

Neal is known across campus for going above and beyond to assist students, colleagues, and members of the Cowley community. Rather than limiting herself to a single role, she actively looks for ways to help others navigate challenges and find solutions.

“She is one of those people who goes out of her way to help someone out,” Smith said. “She does not ‘stay in her lane’—if she knows a way she can make things happen, she will. The Heart of the Tiger is all about taking the extra time, stepping up, and giving to others.”

As a Financial Aid and Scholarship Specialist, Neal plays a critical role in supporting student success. Her approach is rooted in empathy and problem-solving, ensuring students feel supported regardless of their circumstances.

“Wendy has the Heart of a Tiger,” Smith added. “She does not judge someone by their circumstances; she simply looks for solutions that will help them be successful.”

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu