Cowley College Celebrates Three Remarkable Retirees and 72 Years of Lasting Impact

Cowley College recently gathered to honor three extraordinary employees whose combined 72 years of service have helped shape the institution and transform the lives of countless students.

This year's retirement celebration recognized LaVaughan Scheurich, Winfield Corrections Facility GED Instructor, retiring after 15 years of service; Stefani Jones, Director of Student Enrollment and Success, retiring after 28 years of service; and Kristi Shaw, Executive Director of Student Services, retiring after 29 years of service.

For 15 years, LaVaughan Scheurich has believed in her students, often seeing their potential when others did not. She became a full-time GED instructor at Cowley College in 2009 and began teaching at the Winfield Correctional Facility in 2014. Over the past 12 and a half years, she has helped more than 400 men earn their high school diplomas, opening doors to brighter futures. Through graduations, conferences, campus events, and countless milestones, Scheurich has left a lasting impact on Cowley College and the many lives she has changed.

Stefani Jones has served 28 years at Cowley College in numerous roles, helping thousands of students begin their educational journeys. Known for her quiet dedication and humble nature, her story reflects nearly three decades of faithful service. As the Director of Student Enrollment and Success, Stefani has led enrollment efforts resulting in an increase in enrollment over the last two years.  For many students and families, Jones has been one of the first welcoming faces they encounter, offering encouragement and guidance as they take the next step toward their futures.

Kristi Shaw closes a remarkable 29-year career at Cowley College, having worn more hats than can easily be counted. Along with her leadership in Student Services, Shaw played a key role in bringing cheerleading back to Cowley and helping build it into the outstanding program it is today. Over the years, she could be found at honors banquets, productions, homecoming activities, Easter egg hunts, and countless student events. Whether serving as a leader, mentor, advocate, wife, mother, or “SuperSHAW,” she consistently went above and beyond—often working nights and weekends to meet the needs of students.

Together, Scheurich, Jones, and Shaw have given more than seven decades of service to Cowley College. Their compassion, dedication, and belief in students have left an indelible mark on the institution and the thousands of individuals they have served.

While their daily presence on campus will be deeply missed, the legacy they leave behind will continue to inspire future generations of students, faculty, and staff.

Cowley College extends its heartfelt gratitude to LaVaughan Scheurich, Stefani Jones, and Kristi Shaw for their extraordinary service and wishes them happiness, fulfillment, and many new adventures in retirement.

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