Fairfield, CA – Solano Community College is proud to announce that Sheila Smith, one of our outstanding part-time faculty members, has been selected as a recipient of the 2025–2026 Hayward Award, one of the most prestigious honors recognizing faculty excellence in the California Community Colleges system.
Presented annually through the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges and supported by the Foundation for California Community Colleges, the Hayward Award recognizes outstanding faculty who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their students, their college, and the teaching profession.
Professor Smith was selected as part-time faculty honoree for this year, following a competitive statewide nomination process. Each year, colleges nominate faculty members who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, strong contributions to their discipline, and meaningful engagement in campus and professional activities.
Named for former California Community Colleges Chancellor Gerald C. Hayward, the award honors faculty members from across the state who exemplify excellence in education and a deep commitment to student success.
Recipients of the Hayward Award are formally recognized by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors during a meeting each March.
“Professor Smith’s dedication to students and passion for teaching represent the very best of Solano Community College,” said Solano Superintendent President, Dr. Kellie Butler. “This statewide recognition reflects the meaningful impact she has on our campus community and on the lives of the students she serves.”
The Hayward Award highlights the vital role community college faculty play in supporting the success of California’s diverse student population and advancing the mission of accessible, high-quality education across the state.
Solano Community College congratulates Professor Sheila Smith on this well-deserved honor and celebrates her continued commitment to student learning and academic excellence.