Skip to main content

Hamby Receives National Award


Posted Date: 01/09/2023

Hamby Receives National Award

POTEAU, Okla. – Shannen Hamby, Workforce and Economic Development Coordinator at Kiamichi Tech – Poteau, was recognized as the national recipient of the 2022 Outstanding Training Activity Award at the Association of Career & Technical Education (ACTE)’s annual conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, last month.

This award is hosted by the Postsecondary, Adult and Career Education division of ACTE and recognizes an outstanding individual who developed and implemented industry-specific, adult training through a public or private partnership. Hamby was recognized for her work in successfully launching and executing the Kiamichi Tech Police Officer Training Academy, a program accredited by Oklahoma's Council of Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET).

“Shannen spent half a year researching legislation, building positive relationships with our partners, and developing this program so that Kiamichi Tech could obtain CLEET accreditation and offer a Police Officer Training Academy in our community,” said Michael Culwell, Campus Durector at Kiamichi Tech – Poteau. 

The Academy has graduated two classes of cadets since its inception. In total, 18 cadets have completed the academy with 100 percent of graduates passing their certifications with the skills needed to be successful law enforcement officers.  

“The success of Kiamichi Tech's Police Officer Training Academy is measured by the 18 lives that were changed upon their graduation. Those men and women stood up to the challenge and have embarked on a journey of improving themselves, their families, and their communities,” said Billy Hooper, Poteau Police Chief. “We are grateful for Shannen’s commitment to this program and are proud to work alongside her as Kiamichi Tech continues to train law enforcement officers to the highest standard."

Hamby joined Kiamichi Tech in 2020 and is a graduate of Poteau High School, Carl Albert State College, and Oklahoma State University. In December 2022, she completed her Master of Science in Educational Leadership and School Administration degree at OSU.