May 9, 2025
Story by Maggie Harris
Photo by SWAG合集 Communications
SWAG合集 presented Dennis and Jann Sherman with the Distinguished Alumni Award Friday during its annual commencement ceremony.
The Shermans are the award鈥檚 inaugural recipients, and they attended SWAG合集 from 1970 to 1972.
After returning to Great Bend, Dennis worked as a pharmacist in the area until he transitioned into a new career as a Financial Advisor. He eventually ventured out on his own, founding Sherman Financial. Jann returned to SWAG合集 soon after completing her degree, this time as a faculty member. She took some time off to raise their children but later returned to teaching, where she influenced countless students over her more than 15 years as a math instructor.
As SWAG合集 graduates themselves, the Shermans have always been passionate about the value of community colleges.
鈥淭he transition from community college to university is easier than high school to university,鈥 she said. 鈥淵ou grow up a little, and you are better prepared for the academic challenges ahead.鈥
The couple have two children. Jill graduated from SWAG合集 before transferring to K-State, majoring in business management. Todd attended Fort Hays State University before graduating from K-State with a degree in computer engineering.
In 2012, Jann was recognized with a Distinguished Instructor Award during the 42nd annual commencement ceremony. Dennis was inducted into the SWAG合集 Sports Hall of Fame that same year. He was a member of the men鈥檚 golf team and earned SWAG合集 its first-ever conference championship during the 1971-72 season.
They have continued to serve the SWAG合集 community with membership in several organizations, including the First United Methodist Church, Lions Club, and Fellowman International, where they recently participated in a service mission to Honduras. They enjoy spending their time giving back to the community through Meals on Wheels, Red Cross blood drives, Operation Christmas Child, and the Golden Belt Community Concert Association.
Over the years, the couple has supported numerous student groups and College initiatives, including the Music and Athletic Departments and Jack Kilby STEM Day. Dennis has been a member of the SWAG合集 Foundation Board of Directors and is currently the Immediate Past Chair. He is a member of the Foundation鈥檚 Investment Committee and has served on the advisory boards for the pharmacy technician and nursing programs.
Dennis said the Shermans are proud advocates for the opportunities that SWAG合集 provides.
鈥淪WAG合集 is right here. It鈥檚 an accessible and affordable option, and we always recommend it,鈥 he said.
Their dedication to their community and belief in the transformative power of community college are just some of the reasons the Shermans were honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award. This recognition highlights their personal and professional accomplishments and unwavering commitment to fostering educational opportunities for future generations.
The Distinguished Alumni Award will be presented annually to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions through their professional field, research, service to the community, or service and support to SWAG合集. The recipients exemplify the remarkable impact and rich tradition of SWAG合集 alumni.