Wytheville Community College (WCC) alumna Anita Sexton has earned national recognition for her outstanding leadership, service, and dedication to helping others, receiving the 2026 Outstanding Human Services Student Award from the National Organization for Human Services (NOHS). Selected from nominees representing colleges and universities across the country, Sexton was honored during the National Human Services Conference in Jacksonville, Florida, on November 7, 2026. The award recognizes her exceptional contributions to the human services profession and her commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Established in 1975, NOHS is a national professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the human services profession through education, professional development, advocacy, and collaboration. The Outstanding Human Services Student Award recognizes an exceptional undergraduate student who has made significant contributions to the field through leadership, service, academic achievement, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.
Anita was nominated for this prestigious award by WCC Human Services Lead Faculty Kristie Bryant.
During her time at WCC, Anita distinguished herself through her leadership, dedication to service, and commitment to the human services profession. As an active leader in the WCC Human Services Club, she played an instrumental role in expanding student involvement and helping the club experience its largest growth since its establishment.
Anita's commitment to helping others extended well beyond the classroom. She volunteered weekly with women working toward recovery from substance use disorders, providing encouragement and support as they worked to rebuild their lives. She also volunteered with WCC HEALS, the college's collegiate recovery program, supporting students navigating recovery from addiction and other behavioral health challenges. Through these experiences, Anita demonstrated her ability to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
After earning her Associate Degree from WCC, Anita continued her educational journey at Radford University, where she is currently pursuing a degree in Social Work.
"Anita represents everything we hope to see in our Human Services graduates. She has consistently demonstrated that human services is more than a field of study—it is a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Her leadership, compassion, and willingness to serve have made a lasting impact on our program and our community. I could not be prouder of her accomplishments," said Kristie Bryant, Human Services Lead Faculty at WCC, who nominated Anita for the award.
Anita's recognition at the national level reflects not only her academic accomplishments but also her compassion, leadership, and genuine dedication to serving others. Her willingness to take initiative, advocate for individuals facing challenges, and actively contribute to her community exemplifies the values of the human services profession.
Wytheville Community College congratulates Anita on this outstanding national achievement! Her accomplishments serve as an inspiration to current and future Human Services students and demonstrate the meaningful impact that one dedicated individual can have on the lives of others.
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