GCCC President Ryan Ruda Receives 2026 NASPA Presidential Excellence Award
Garden City Community College President Dr. Ryan J. Ruda has received the 2026 NASPA Region IV-West Presidential Excellence Award, recognizing his longstanding commitment to student success and campus life.
The award was announced during the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Region IV-West Annual Conference, held Oct. 25-28 in Boulder, Colorado. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate a longstanding commitment to student life and consistently support student affairs professionals and initiatives.
As one nominator shared, Dr. Ruda’s leadership is rooted in “collaboration, transparency, deliberate communication, and shared purpose.” Through his commitment to leadership development, community partnerships, and student success, he has made a lasting impact on his institution and community.
Reflecting on the recognition, Ruda emphasized the collaborative effort required to support student success. “Excellence in leadership is never a solo achievement. It is the result of a team of dedicated people who share a vision, believe in one another, and work together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students,” Ruda said.
The recognition holds particular significance for Ruda, who began his career at GCCC more than 25 years ago as an Advisor and Counselor in Student Services. He later served as Vice President for Student Services before becoming college President in 2019.
During Ruda’s tenure as President, GCCC has experienced significant growth in enrollment, academic offerings, and opportunities for students to continue their education. Over the past five years, overall enrollment has increased by 16%, exceeding the Kansas community college average of 11%, while high school enrollment has grown by 51%.
The college has also expanded its academic programs and university partnerships, now offering 17 bachelor’s degree pathways that allow students to pursue advanced degrees closer to home. Under Ruda’s leadership, GCCC continues to expand educational opportunities, strengthen pathways to advanced degrees, and help more students achieve their academic and career goals.
“Ultimately, our mission and work must be centered around students,” Ruda said. “At Garden City Community College, we believe that education is about more than earning a degree or completing a credential. It is about creating opportunities, building relationships, and helping students discover what is possible for their futures.”
As the Region IV-West recipient, Ruda will serve as the region’s nominee for the national NASPA President’s Award. Region IV-West includes institutions in 10 U.S. states and the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
About NASPA
NASPA is a leading association dedicated to the advancement, health and sustainability of the student affairs profession. The association provides professional development, advocacy and research for 15,000 members across all 50 states, 25 countries and eight U.S. territories.
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