News

Katrina Patton, an instructor in Southeast Community College's Geographic Information Systems Program, was recognized at the 2025 Nebraska GIS Symposium for her outstanding contribution to GIS education in Nebraska. The award was presented during the 14th annual symposium, held April 22-23, 2025, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, acknowledging educators who have established or furthered exemplary GIS educational projects within Nebraska's educational institutions.

Patton has played a pivotal role in developing SCC's GIS Program since its inception, helping to establish what has become a cornerstone program for GIS education in the state. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom, as evidenced by the success of her former students. The program has produced graduates who have gone on to successful careers in municipal government, county offices and various other organizations that rely on GIS.

Troy Griffin, one of Patton's former students who nominated her for the award, praised her exceptional dedication to student success. Making a career change in his 50s, Patton stands out as one of the best instructors he has ever had.  

"Katrina has an obvious passion not only for the subject matter, but also for her student's success,” Griffin explained. “Because I was also working a full-time job, I would often post questions late at night, early in the morning, or on weekends, expecting a response during the next business day. It was rare that I didn't get a reply within a couple of hours. That's above and beyond and defines her as an instructor."

Another nominator, Chad Kendall, emphasized Patton's broader impact on the field. Both Griffin and Kendall were part of the very first GIS cohort at SCC in 2014-2015, making them witnesses to Patton's foundational work in establishing the program.

"We all felt that Katrina has helped shine a light on GIS and brought an offering of hands-on education to those wanting to learn or further their knowledge in GIS," Kendall said. “She was always willing to listen and help us. She was a true advocate for us.”

What sets Patton apart as an educator, according to her former students, is her comprehensive approach to teaching that goes well beyond technical instruction. Her teaching methodology encompasses different learning styles and backgrounds, ensuring that students not only master the technical aspects of GIS but also develop the confidence and analytical skills needed for professional success.

"It’s not enough to be knowledgeable about the subject matter. What sets instructors apart is their ability to not only impart the basic knowledge, but also help the student understand in a manner that fits their own learning style, creates their own passion for the subject, and ultimately sets them up for success in the future. Anyone can instruct. The great instructors are also part-time counselors, parents, friends, tutors, cheerleaders, and fellow students themselves. Katrina was all of these,” Griffin said.

The impact of Patton's instruction is evident in her students' career achievements. Griffin now works at Lincoln Transportation and Utilities, where he has been employed since his internship during Patton's class, while Kendall serves in the Lancaster County GIS Department at the Assessor's office. This recognition at the Nebraska GIS Symposium celebrates not just an outstanding educator, but someone whose influence continues to shape Nebraska's GIS community through the professionals she has trained and inspired.

Jennifer Snyder
Communications Specialist
402-323-3393
jsnyder@southeast.edu