In recognition of her years of dedicated service and contributions to the success of Colby Community College,  Luella “Lou” Kersenbrock has been selected to receive the 2014 Honorary Associate Degree posthumously.

Kersenbrock began her career in 1970 as a faculty secretary at Colby Community College.  Her office was located in the Faculty Complex in Thomas Hall.  She assisted many well-known instructors at the college including Vic Oelke, Dr. Max Pickerill, Roger Hale, Larry Koon, Vernon Wranosky, Cyril Leiker, Bob Selby and numerous others.  When the Bedker Memorial Complex building was completed in 1997, she moved her office to the new location.  She was a mentor to many young secretaries and work study students during her 30-year career at CCC.

“Lou was one of those we associate with Colby Community College—not only as a long-time employee, but someone who played a lead role in its growth and success,” said CCC Business Instructor Bob Selby. “When one thinks of CCC of the past, many names come to mind—including Lou Kersenbrock.  She enrolled in many courses at CCC but never completed a degree, which she mentioned quite often.  She is a worthy person to receive this honor.”

Her children Bradley and Lesley both graduated from Colby Community College. Brad is the owner of Kersenbrock Funeral Chapel.  Lesley is married to Jeff Wagoner.  She is a teacher at Colby High School and has taught during the summer months at CCC. Lou’s grandchildren Brittany Kersenbrock, Tasha Wagoner and Brock Wagoner were very involved in athletics and other activities and are graduates of CCC.

Lou retired from the college in 2000. In addition to working, Lou pursued many hobbies.  She did cross stitching, scrapbooking, painting, ceramics, photography and stamping.  She was generous with her talents and gave away many of her pictures, crocheted towels, pottery and cards.  She was also a familiar face at her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and other activities.

She and her husband Bill were married in 1960.  He continues to be an active supporter and advocate for Colby Community College.  For many years Bill drove the bus to out-of-town competitions for the public school system and CCC.  He is well known in the community and attends nearly every sporting event hosted by the high school and the college.

Lou passed away Jan. 7, 2014 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

The Honorary Degree will be conferred during Commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 16, at 6 p.m. in the Colby Community Building.