Students’ many achievements and contributions at Highline College took center stage at two annual award ceremonies this spring.

Both events allowed friends, family and Highline staff and faculty the chance to applaud the hard work of students during the 2015–16 academic year. In all, 89 students took home 95 awards.

On May 11, the Pure and Applied Science division held its annual awards presentation at the Des Moines Activity Center. Awards for academic excellence went to 31 students in 16 categories from the five division departments:

• Computer Science/Computer Information Systems
• Engineering
• Life, Ocean and General Sciences
• Mathematics
• Physical Science

The division has been holding the event since at least 1988. Having a ceremony distinct from the all-campus awards allows for a shorter and more intimate event, according to John Pfeffer, who has been teaching chemistry at Highline since 1988.

On May 25, 65 students were honored during the Highline Student Awards Ceremony in the Highline Student Union.

Andreas “Andy” Satkowski

A tradition that began in 1999, the awards recognize students from a range of areas. Each academic department could select up to two students whose efforts during the year were especially notable. Winners were also chosen from leadership programs and clubs that are funded by student activities fees.

During the event, 10 programs honored 18 students for their outstanding scholastic achievement and 47 students were recognized in 35 areas for their campus involvement and outstanding contributions.

Andreas “Andy” Satkowski was one of two students earning two awards, recognized for his contributions to the ACHIEVE program and the Urban Agriculture program, which brings classes and resources to area residents to increase access to healthy food.

Satkowski works part time in the college’s edible garden, a new campus feature giving students hands-on practice growing and harvesting fruits and vegetables.

The May 25 event was funded by Student Services and Activities fees and sponsored by the Associated Students of Highline College with the Center for Leadership and Service.

Nearly 17,000 students attend Highline each year.

Awards for Academic Excellence

Awards for Outstanding Program Contribution

Awards for Outstanding Scholastic Achievement