Cowley College Honors Roxanna James with Ben LeClair Staff Excellence Award

Cowley College is proud to announce that Roxanna James, Director of the IMPACT Program, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Ben LeClair Staff Excellence Award. This honor is bestowed upon staff members who exemplify the highest standards of service, leadership, and dedication—qualities Roxanna James displays daily.

Nominated by colleagues Loretta Waldroupe and Katie Ryberg, Roxanna was praised for her unwavering commitment to Cowley College, the IMPACT Program, and most importantly, the students she serves. “It is with great admiration and appreciation that we nominated Roxanna James,” Waldroupe and Ryberg shared. “She consistently goes above and beyond, often giving her personal time and resources to ensure student success.”

Roxanna’s influence is felt far beyond the Cowley campus. She was recently inducted into the MOKANNE TRIO Hall of Fame, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the TRIO community throughout Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. Her leadership is marked by vision, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to empowering others.

A model of integrity and accountability, Roxanna carefully stewards the IMPACT Program’s resources, ensuring full compliance with federal guidelines while maximizing benefits for students. Her meticulous attention to detail has fortified the program’s foundation and longevity.

“Roxanna’s impact cannot be measured in numbers or job descriptions,” her nominators said. “She leads with heart, humor, humility, and grace—the very same qualities that made Ben LeClair so beloved.”

Cowley College is honored to recognize Roxanna James for her outstanding service and exemplary leadership. Her legacy is one of lives changed, programs strengthened, and a campus made better because of her presence.

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