Award Recipients

Rising Professionals Award:

Sarah Truman

Dr. Sarah Truman is an experienced optometrist in the Kansas City area who utilizes her education, training, and skills gained from the Gerontology program as she works with older adults in her practice. As a professional, she holds multiple fellow designations, has won numerous awards, completed pretigious leadership trainings, and has volunteered her time with the Kansas City Free Eye Clinic, optometric mission trips, and the special olympics. She is well respected in her field and across the Kansas City area, and is someone we are proud to say is a graduate of Kansas State University

Madison Parker

Since graduating from the secondary major followed by a Master's degree in gerontology, Madison has become a Licensed Adult Care Home Administrator and currently serves as the administrator of a 65-bed nursing facility that includes a 14-bed memory care unit. Madison is paving the way for top-notch person-centered care across long-term care facilities in rural Kansas through implemeting best practices, engaging in K-State's PEAK program, providing professional development and training of staff, and continually ensuring the best quality of life possible for her residents. Madison is a true change-maker in her community, and a great representative of Kansas State University.

Celebration of Excellence

Joyce Jenkins

Joyce Jenkins is so deserving of being recognized as a Friend of the College. Humbly, Joyce has been a steadfast supporter of the Center on Aging for decades. She has supported our students through guidance and mentoring and started the Joyce Rawlins Jenkins Excellence Fund in Gerontology, which has enhanced student experiences in gerontology tremendously. Her desire to grow students and enhance their college experience is admirable. Joyce has sponsored several student trips to give them experiences a wide range of aging service providers and connect them with professionals in the field.