Emma Hunsaker Receives Shaping Wyoming's Future Award

Western Wyoming Community College student recognized for determination, perseverance, and success

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Western Wyoming Community College has announced that Emma Hunsaker, a sophomore from Star Valley, is the college's recipient of the annual Shaping Wyoming's Future Award. The recognition is presented through the Wyoming Association of Community College Trustees, in partnership with the Wyoming Business Alliance, to honor students who have transformed their lives through the Wyoming community college system.

Why it matters

The Shaping Wyoming's Future Award highlights students who are making a positive impact on their communities and the future of Wyoming. Hunsaker's selection for this prestigious award showcases the important role that community colleges play in providing educational opportunities and supporting student success.

The details

Hunsaker, who is pursuing a career in radiology, was chosen for the award due to her academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to serving others. In addition to her studies, she is deeply involved in campus life, participating in the National Society of Leadership and Success, the Peer Mentoring Program, and serving as a student worker for Student Life.

  • Hunsaker traveled to Cheyenne on February 12, 2026 to receive the award.
  • Hunsaker is a sophomore at Western Wyoming Community College.

The players

Emma Hunsaker

A sophomore at Western Wyoming Community College from Star Valley, who is the recipient of the annual Shaping Wyoming's Future Award.

Dustin Conover

The Dean of Students at Western Wyoming Community College.

Kirk Young

The President of Western Wyoming Community College.

Wyoming Association of Community College Trustees

The organization that presents the Shaping Wyoming's Future Award in partnership with the Wyoming Business Alliance.

Wyoming Business Alliance

The organization that partners with the Wyoming Association of Community College Trustees to present the Shaping Wyoming's Future Award.

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What they’re saying

“Emma truly embodies the spirit of Western and the Wyoming community college system. Her determination, leadership, and commitment to serving others are exactly what the Shaping Wyoming's Future award was created to recognize. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and excited to see the positive impact she will continue to have on her community and on Wyoming's future.”

— Kirk Young, President, Western Wyoming Community College (sweetwaternow.com)

“Just do it.”

— Emma Hunsaker (sweetwaternow.com)

What’s next

Hunsaker will continue her studies at Western Wyoming Community College, working towards her goal of a career in radiology.

The takeaway

The Shaping Wyoming's Future Award recognizes students like Emma Hunsaker who are making a positive impact on their communities and the future of Wyoming through their determination, leadership, and commitment to serving others. This award highlights the important role that community colleges play in providing educational opportunities and supporting student success.