Two Seminole State College employees were recognized for their hard work and dedication during the monthly Seminole Chamber of Commerce Forum on Dec. 13. Language Arts and Humanities Vice Chair and Speech Professor John Bolander was honored as “Faculty Member of the Month” and Information Technology Technician Rick Hanson was honored as “Professional Staff Member of the Month.”
The Seminole Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, along with the Lions Club and Blue Ribbon Realty, recognize SSC employees several times during Forum each year. Individuals are nominated from across the campus and chosen by SSC administrators to receive the honor.
John Bolander
Bolander has worked for SSC since 2009 when he began as an Adjunct Professor of English. He served as an adjunct for six years before taking on a full-time professorship in 2015. Last year, Bolander took on the role of Faculty Senate President and is presently the degree program mentor for the Liberal Studies with a Speech Emphasis program.
In November, Bolander organized the College’s inaugural Speech and Debate Tournament, where a total of 14 high schools across the state came and competed. All funds raised at the tournament will go to three scholarships for Language Arts and Humanities students.
Bolander holds a bachelor’s degree in English/Speech from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a master’s degree in Educational Administration and Counseling. He is presently working on his Doctorate through Swansea University, utilizing its partnership with the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond.
Bolander and his wife, Brenda, live in Meeker. They have two children Allison, 32, and Jake, 29, and two grandchildren.
Rick Hanson
Hanson began his employment at SSC in 2000 while working on his associate’s degree. He has served as an Information Technology Technician for nearly 19 years. Hanson is set to retire at the conclusion of the fall semester.
Hanson has enjoyed his time at the College, saying, “No two days are ever the same.” He has provided expertise to faculty, staff and students when they’re struggling with technical issues. He has also helped ensure events had the proper audio/visual equipment in place, and previously served as an administrator for the school’s management software.
Upon retirement, Hanson plans to travel more, spend more time working in his garden and enjoy attending his grandsons’ sporting events. He and his wife, Bonnie, reside in Seminole.