With exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and faithful service to the community, Sterling College seniors Sadie Waller of Independence, Mo., and Mason Cobb of West Monroe, La., were named the 2026 Outstanding Female and Male Graduates, awarded in conjunction with the Professor Fran Jabara Leadership Award.

The awards honor two students who reflect the ideals of the Sterling College graduate through outstanding academic achievement, campus involvement, leadership, and a vibrant Christian faith. Recipients must hold a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher and are selected by faculty and staff.

Waller, a Criminal Justice: Pre-Law and Psychology: Clinical & Research major, graduated Summa Cum Laude and was also a Kelsey Scholar. Waller was deeply involved in academics and student leadership. She was praised by faculty for being academically excellent and “a joy to be around.” Associate Professor of Psychology, Jennifer Froese, described her as “one of the most driven and determined students I’ve had in my program.”

Cobb, a Sports Management: Coaching & Instruction major, graduated Cum Laude and was also a Kelsey Scholar. Cobb was recognized for his pursuit of excellence and his leadership among his peers. Assistant Professor of Health & Human Performance, Jill Rowland, described him by saying he “represents what it means to lead with a servant’s heart, striving for excellence in the classroom as well as on the football field.” 

The Professor Fran Jabara Leadership Award was established in 2002 by Professor Fran Jabara, former Dean of the Wichita State University College of Business Administration, and recognizes graduating seniors from four-year, private Kansas colleges who display exemplary leadership skills.

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.