Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology honored its student achievers on Thursday evening as the campus community came together for the 2026 Annual Academic Awards Ceremony at the Multipurpose Activity Center. 

The annual spring tradition recognized second-year students for their academic excellence and leadership while also celebrating the faculty and staff whose dedication to students defines the Thaddeus Stevens College experience. 

Student Excellence Across Technical Programs 

Students from programs across the College were recognized for their achievements, with faculty from each program presenting awards and sharing what makes each recipient stand out, not just as a student, but as a future professional and member of the Bulldog community. 

Each academic program second-year cohort faculty member presented two awards for their cohort: the highest grade point average award for their cohort and the leadership and character award.  

Among the major awards presented: 

• Student Alumni Award — Morgan Savary, Computer & Network Systems Administration, recognized for outstanding qualifications in leadership, character, and scholarship as selected by faculty. 

• Thaddeus Stevens College Service Award — Anthony Battaglia, Graphic Communications & Printing Technology, honoring the student who best exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and community service within and outside of the Thaddeus Stevens College community. 

• James H. Hartzell Award — Jeffrey Hilsher, Metals Fabrication and Welding Technology, recognizing the student showing the greatest scholastic and personal improvement. 

Student Government Association President Kolby Minnich, a Diesel Technology major, served as emcee for the evening, reflecting the student-led spirit that makes this ceremony a true celebration of the entire Bulldog community. 

Faculty and Staff Recognition 

The evening also celebrated exceptional faculty and staff members who embody the college’s values and contribute to student success every day: 

• Excellence in Teaching Award — Dr. Nasser Bogale, Mathematics, recognized for enthusiasm in the classroom, exceptional preparation, and his ability to help students understand complexity and remove learning barriers.  

• Lydia Hamilton Smith Award — Yolanda Olan, Custodial Leader, honored for her behind-the-scenes dedication and support of the college community. This award recognizes those who embody the spirit of commitment demonstrated by Lydia Hamilton Smith, a significant figure in Thaddeus Stevens’ life and a prominent African American businesswoman. 

• Alex B. Munro Diversity Award — Tanner Schwilk, Assistant Registrar, honored for extraordinary contributions that advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at the College. 

A Complete College Experience 

The Annual Academic Awards Ceremony is one of the highlights of the academic year, a moment to pause, look around, and recognize the people who make Thaddeus Stevens College the place that it is. From the lab to the classroom to the stage on Thursday evening, this community continues to prove that when access meets ambition, extraordinary things happen.