Celebrating academics, leadership, service at 2026 Honors Convocation

Tabor College celebrated 16 students and faculty at its final Chapel of the academic year.

The Academic Honors Convocation celebrates and recognizes the outstanding academic achievements within the student body.

Cornelius Hiebert Outstanding Student Merit Award

“Tabor has helped me pursue excellence by allowing me to be involved in many different areas on campus. In the classroom, I am challenged academically and spiritually. I am part of multiple clubs on campus, and in those clubs, I have gained skills that apply to real-life situations. As a resident assistant (RA), I have learned how to lead others and form deep relationships. Tabor’s small size means I can be involved in everything I want. The staff care deeply about the students and guide us to excellence in all we do.”— Katie Hofer (JR, Reedley, Calif.)

“Tabor has encouraged me to be present in the lives of those around me. From administration to coaches, the support I’ve received has empowered me to make an impact for Christ in every area of campus life. Whether in the classroom, on the football field, or through Campus Ministry Council, Tabor’s culture keeps the focus on what matters most. That foundation has allowed me to grow both academically and spiritually.”— Josiah Winans (JR, Fairview, Okla.)

Larry and Elaine Nikkel Service Award

“In my time at Tabor, I have come to appreciate just how connected service is to leadership. To lead is to serve and I have had many wonderful opportunities to practice that, especially in leading Share, Prayer & Dare (SP&D). It has been a joy to serve the student body through leading this ministry and it has been so formative in teaching me what it looks like to be a servant leader.”— Faith Nelson (SR, Wolsey, S.D.)

“Tabor is a great place to get involved with so many different clubs and activities available. The people in these clubs are amazing and give you opportunities to serve. I’ve been part of Campus Ministry Council for the past two years and nurtured my vision for service. We got to put on activities every month to serve all students on campus, so getting the chance to set up these events, be a part of them, and the interactions I’ve had at these have been fruitful and rewarding.”— Tyson Flores (SR, Ulysses, Kan.)

Professor Fran Jabara Leadership Award

“The leadership positions I have had on campus, like being an RA and CMC President, put me in a position of growth and learning how to serve. But ultimately, the way I now lead has been nurtured through the encouragement of the community around me and by my personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Being a leader is not about being the loudest in the room, but about being a servant, loving people, and being Christ-like. By growing in my faith through activities and relationships on campus, I have become more confident in my identity in Christ, ultimately shaping the way in which I have led on campus,”— Malorie Hein (SR, Hillsboro, Kan.)

“I’ve seen my leadership grow the most by simply having the chance to try so many new things here at Tabor. Every leadership capacity I’ve served in has taught me a unique lesson. Having Christ-like figures to mentor and guide me through these experiences has made all the difference in shaping my character and my leadership style,”— Pryce Holloway (SR, Choctaw, Okla.)

Clarence R. Hiebert Excellence in Teaching Award

“Being recognized by fellow faculty is deeply meaningful to me. These are colleagues who are in the trenches every day, teaching, mentoring, and serving students, so their recognition carries a special weight. To be seen by them as someone who supports others, shares ideas and prioritizes students and colleagues is a true honor. Being part of Christ’s mission in the classroom means approaching the teacher as service. It’s about meeting students where they are, investing in their growth and using my role to guide, encourage, and challenge them.”— Lily Arthur, Assistant Professor of Accounting/Business

Other Award/Scholarship Recipients

Health and Human Performance

Science & Mathematics

Business

Music