Wayne State College’s Dr. Sean Ahern, associate professor of communication arts, has been named as the 2025 Teaching Excellence Award recipient for the Nebraska State College System (NSCS).
Ahern was selected during the NSCS Board of Trustees meeting on March 20, and he will be celebrated during Wayne State’s Spring 2025 commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 10.
"Dr. Ahern exemplifies the essence of educational excellence through his unwavering dedication to student success, innovative teaching methods, and his commitment to advancing the field of mass communication," said chancellor Paul Turman of the Nebraska State College System. "His ability to blend classroom knowledge with real-world experience, inspire student engagement, and cultivate a dynamic learning environment truly sets him apart. Dr. Ahern's passion for his work and his positive impact on students and colleagues make him deserving of the NSCS Teaching Excellence Award. We are proud to celebrate his accomplishments and his invaluable contributions to Wayne State College."
"I am honored to be this year's recipient of the NCSC Teaching Excellence Award,” said Ahern, who is also the advisor to KWSC-FM 91.9 The Cat, the campus radio station. “Coming to Wayne State College in 2020, sight unseen at the height of COVID-19, was one of the biggest risks I have ever taken. I am so glad that I did because, in 2025, I cannot imagine being anywhere else doing what I love. I am lucky to have such kind and encouraging colleagues, including Dr. Teresa Morales, who nominated me and wrote a letter of support, and my dean, Dr. Dave Bohnert, for his everyday kindness and encouragement. I am also grateful to my former students Aubreanna Miller, Grant Ferrell, and Becca Arkfeld, whose moving letters remind me that we impact students and their futures every day. To quote The Tragically Hip, ‘Let's go somewhere we're needed, Find somewhere to go, We grow where we are needed.’”
Ahern’s commitment to his students and teaching is reflected each year by the numerous nominations and awards his students receive for Golden Leaf Awards and Intercollegiate Broadcasting System Student Media Awards. Additionally, for its participation in World College Radio Day on Oct. 4, 2024, KWSC-FM 91.9 The Cat received a 2024 Spirit of College Radio Award from the College Radio Foundation – making it one of only 10 college radio stations in the world to get the award in 2024.
Each year, the NSCS recognizes a faculty member from one of the three Nebraska State Colleges with the NSCS Teaching Excellence Award. After being selected as the college-level Teaching Excellence Award recipient, a nominee from each College is submitted for consideration. The award recognizes superior teaching and advising, innovative instructional practices, high educational standards, and engaging learning environments that inspire and motivate students.
Ahern earned his bachelor of arts degree in Communication Studies from Colby-Sawyer College, his master of arts degree in Popular Culture from Bowling Green State University, and his Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Buffalo (State University of New York system).
Ahern's nomination included several letters of support from colleagues and former students.
"Dr. Ahern is an excellent educator who understands the value of blending classroom knowledge with hands-on experience. Students respect and appreciate his willingness to engage them in a variety of learning environments. Dr. Ahen's unwavering dedication to teaching and learning sets him apart, making him a truly deserving recipient of the NSCS Teaching Excellence Award," said Dr. Marysz Rames, president of Wayne State.
"Dr. Ahern's dedication to enhancing student experiences and advancing the field of mass communication at Wayne State College is evident in his tireless efforts to upgrade equipment, expand course offerings, and create impactful learning opportunities. His passionate commitment to his students' success and his vibrant, dynamic approach to education make him a deserving nominee for the NSCS Teaching Excellence Award," said Dr. Teresa Morales, professor of Communication and Rhetoric at Wayne State.
"Sean is a committed scholar who regularly presents his research at national conferences. He is very involved in professional organizations and has encouraged our students to get involved as well," said Dr. David Bohnert, dean of Wayne State’s School of Arts and Humanities. "Dr. Ahern is a passionate and committed faculty member who serves as a positive role model for WSC students. He brings a renewed energy to broadcasting at WSC and embodies the ideals of the NSCS Teaching Excellence Award."
"Dr. Ahern embodies the qualities of an outstanding educator. His contributions to our institution, his dedication to student success, and his innovative approach to teaching make him deserving of the Teaching Excellence Award," said Dr. Allyn Lueders, professor and Chair of the Communication Arts Department at Wayne State.
"Because of Dr. Ahern's guidance, leadership, and inviting personality, I feel confident in my ability to move further into academia. I hope someday I get the opportunity to work with him again, and I greatly hope that I will be as great of a mentor for my future students as he was for me," said Aubreanna Miller, a former student and 2023 Wayne State graduate.
