Two Hill College instructors named recipients of excellence award by the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development

  Ashlee Ferguson
  Tuesday, September 15, 2026 8:36 AM
  General Events

Hillsboro, TX

Olivia Sanders-PatrickEarlier this year, Hill College instructors Olivia Sanders Patrick and Aaron Warren were named recipients of the 2026 National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award.  

The award ceremony was held in Austin, Texas, during NISOD’s annual conference. This year’s focus was on advancing community college student engagement. The Excellence Award recognizes the contributions of faculty, staff, and administrators who shape the futures of community and technical college students.  

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate Olivia Sanders Patrick and Aaron Warren for receiving the NISOD Excellence in Teaching Award. This recognition speaks to their commitment to students and to the quality of teaching and learning that takes place every day at Hill College. Faculty are at the heart of the student experience, and it is especially meaningful to see Olivia and Aaron recognized for the impact they make through their work,” said Vice President of Student Learning & Success Dr. Shelley Pearson. Aaron Warren

NISOD empowers faculty, staff, and administrators at community and technical colleges to support the needs of diverse students in the face of ever-present resource constraints with the goal of connecting staff and faculty with the appropriate knowledge to grow their careers and improve instruction, providing meaningful programs that can guide and direct students, employees, and institutions.  

“I have had the privilege of being an educator for the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at Hill College for over 11 years. Being named a recipient of the 2026 NISOD Excellence Award is a privilege and an honor. This award not only reflects my efforts and commitment to quality education for students but the dedication of our institution’s commitment to be a beacon of excellence. I am truly thankful for the encouragement, guidance, and support of my colleagues. I would also like to thank my students for their daily inspiration and motivation,” said Sanders Patrick.