Lander University Alumni Association Names 2026 Alumni Award Recipients

The Lander University Alumni Association Board of Directors has named two notable graduates as the recipients of the university’s 2026 Alumni Awards, recognizing their professional accomplishments, leadership and commitment to making a difference in their communities.

Shannon Stephens will receive the university’s prestigious Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award, which recognizes alumni who have achieved distinction in their chosen field and demonstrated a commitment to civic, cultural, educational or church activities. Recipients must also have demonstrated a special interest in Lander through their time, talents and resources.

Ryan Wiley will receive the Young Alumni Achievement Award. This award recognizes alumni who graduated from Lander within the past 15 years and have served their communities in an exemplary manner.

Together, the honorees reflect the lasting impact of a Lander education and the many ways alumni are making their mark beyond the University.

“The Lander experience doesn’t end at graduation; it lives on through the accomplishments, service and leadership of our alumni,” said Brittany B. Tims ’11, ’22, director of alumni affairs and annual fundraising at Lander University. “Shannon Stephens and Ryan Wiley exemplify the difference our alumni make in their professions and communities. Celebrating their achievements is a reminder of the strong connections that unite our alumni and the lasting impact they continue to make long after leaving campus.”

Nate Reynolds Jr. ’93, president of the Lander University Alumni Association Board of Directors, emphasized the significance of recognizing alumni who carry the University’s values into their communities.

“These awards recognize more than professional success; they celebrate the character, service and commitment that make our alumni community so special,” Reynolds said. “We are proud to honor Shannon and Ryan for the example they set and the contributions they make, and we look forward to celebrating their accomplishments with fellow Bearcats during Homecoming.”

Stephens and Wiley will be honored at the Alumni Awards Luncheon, set for Friday, Feb. 19, 2027, as part of Lander University’s annual Homecoming festivities, scheduled for Feb. 19 - 20. For ticket and other information, please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@lander.edu.