From doubt to dedication: Stalcup winner woven into LCCC's fabric

George Jankowski was convinced he wasn’t smart enough for college when he finished high school. But by the time he made his way to Laramie County Community College, he knew he’d found a way to make a positive change in his life with higher education.  

Jankowski was a nontraditional student, coming to LCCC in his 30s after service in the U.S. Air Force. It wasn’t his first attempt at college, and his previous experience left him uncertain whether pursuing a degree was the right decision. When he arrived at LCCC, however, Jankowski said he could tell there was something different.  

“The friendly demeanor among the staff and faculty made me feel comfortable, and the smaller class sizes definitely made my instructors more accessible; it was easy for me to talk to them,” he said. “Every faculty member I met made me feel welcome and didn’t make me feel stupid for asking questions.”  

Whether he needed to meet his advisor or support from the Office of Student Accommodations, Jankowski said he always felt like an important part of the LCCC community.  

“Everyone here always encouraged me, and knew I could graduate, and treated me like a person, not just a number,” he said.  

In May 2021, Jankowski earned an associate of arts degree in social sciences. Laura Hayes, a faculty member at LCCC, acknowledged not only Jankowski's triumph over academic challenges but also his noteworthy contributions to the community through dedicated community service. Throughout his time at LCCC, Jankowski actively participated in various student groups, including Phi Theta Kappa, the Student Veteran's Association, and the Student Alliance for Equality (SAFE). 

Hayes nominated Jankowski for the 2021 Jan & W.M. Stalcup Student Excellence Award, a recognition of outstanding achievement and character made possible by the LCCC Foundation. The cash award is given to one graduating LCCC student each spring who has gone above and beyond their classroom obligations to volunteer and engage with the LCCC and Laramie County community.  

After donating some of his cash award to the Cheyenne Animal Shelter and veterans organizations, Jankowski said he took himself on 
a small vacation.