Alma Alumni Award Winners

CHARLOTTE ROCKWELL
PHOTOGRAPHER

AUDREY HESTER
STAFF WRITER

9/22/2025

This September, Alma College’s Advancement Office announced the winners of the 2025 Alumni Awards.

These are four different awards, each focusing on specific spheres of influence and operation for the alumni of Alma College. A fifth title is given out to graduates who are selected to be the grand marshals for the upcoming Homecoming parade—this year the grand marshals are Stephanie and Jeff Leppien, both of whom have important positions within the Alma community.

“Our Young Alumni Award is given to someone that has graduated in the last 15 years and is thriving in their career while giving back to their community and Alma College,” said Amy Pratt (‘04), the current President of Alma College’s Alumni Board.

This year, Jacob Dayringer (‘11) was the recipient of this Award, thanks to his extensive work as the director of Camp Greenwood and key member of the nonprofit Christian summer camp Greenwood Ministries Association.

“The Smith Distinguished Service Award is presented to an alumnus who believes in Alma College and assists with student recruitment, offers internships and employment opportunities to students or serves on a college board or council,” said Pratt.

The 2025 recipient of the Smith Distinguished Service Award is Amanda Zielinski Slenski (‘07). She previously served in enrollment positions for Alma College, and continues to be a dedicated member of its community through volunteer work.

“The George and Bess Hebert Award honors alumni for their service to Alma College and the Alumni Association,” said Pratt.

There are two recipients this year, Michael Perkins (‘86) and Mark Blanke (‘86). They have both received awards from other organizations in the past for their enduring service and efforts, particularly with AIDS Partnership Michigan.

“The Hugh Brenneman (’67) Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor presented to alumni. The award recognizes alumni who have brought distinction to the college through their professions, have set strong examples for others and have served their communities,” said Pratt.

This year, Mark Kolanowski (‘86) was the recipient of the Hugh Brenneman Distinguished Alumni Award. He serves as the Chairman, President, and CEO of Highpoint Community Bank and HCB Financial Corporation. He was active on Alma’s campus as a student in leadership positions, and has taken these skills into the world post-graduation.

Alma College has always strived to train and shape alumni into being capable, important members of their respective communities. Awards such as the Alumni Awards help to emphasize that Alma values all of its student body, both past and present, and are crucial for maintaining bonds between the college and those who have graduated from it.

“Giving out Alumni Awards is important because it recognizes and celebrates the achievements of fellow alumni who embody the values of our institution. It not only honors their hard work and contributions in their fields and communities but also strengthens the connection between alumni and Alma College,” said Pratt.

“Alumni Awards are vital for building a culture of recognition and gratitude. They remind alumni that their accomplishments matter to us and they encourage ongoing engagement with the college,” said Pratt.

For more information about the Alumni Awards and their recipients, view Tim Rath’s article on the topic on Alma College’s website.