Labette Community College Names Professor DeAnna Huffman as 2025 Distinguished Faculty Award Recipient

Parsons, KS — Labette Community College (LCC) proudly announces Associate Professor of Psychology, DeAnna Huffman M.A as the recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Faculty Award, in recognition of her outstanding teaching, service, and dedication to student success both inside and outside the classroom. Huffman has earned her M.A Human Services and M.A Professional Counseling degrees from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia.

A passionate educator, Professor Huffman is known for her highly engaging and student-centered teaching style. Her philosophy of education centers on making psychology relevant to students’ daily lives, regardless of their chosen career paths. “Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior,” she explains. “I want my students to understand how what we discuss in class connects to their lived experiences and helps them grow—not only academically but personally.”

Huffman employs a wide variety of instructional strategies to enhance learning, from thought-provoking classroom discussions and hands-on experiments, to journal reflections and cooperative learning. She integrates current events, popular culture, documentaries, and interdisciplinary connections to bring abstract theories to life. Her courses encourage critical thinking, self-discovery, empathy, and cultural awareness—while also eliminating financial barriers by using free, Open Educational Resource (OER) textbooks, for students.
Students overwhelmingly praise Huffman's impact on their academic and personal development:
“Mrs. Huffman pushed me to do the best for myself and my kids. I'm presenting in Kansas City tomorrow—even though it’s out of my comfort zone. I wouldn’t have done it if it wasn’t for her.”

“She encourages her students, nudges them to stretch themselves academically, and sees the good in each student.”

“She is always smiling, kind, and understanding. She makes learning fun and meaningful.”

“I was able to heal interpersonally, become Psychology Club president, and find my voice—because of her.”

Huffman’s commitment to her field extends beyond her classroom. She is the Psychology Club advisor, which regularly volunteers for causes such as foster care support, suicide prevention, and holiday outreach to senior citizens. Recently, she led LCC student participation at the Kansas City Kansas Community College Psychology Research Conference, where seven of her students presented original research —two of whom presented posters, and the remaining five provided oral presentations on their respective topics. She delivered the keynote address at the event in April 2025, titled “Empowering Minds: The Significance of Integrating Empirical Research into Community College Psychology Curricula.”

Professor Huffman continues to support faculty development as the facilitator of the Psychology Resource Room and mentor for adjunct instructors. She also serves in leadership across campus as a member of multiple committees, including Curriculum & Instruction, Strategic Operations, Professional Development, and the Cardinal Kindness Committee.

Her involvement doesn’t stop at the doors of LCC. Huffman is a dedicated community member and global volunteer, participating in mission trips to numerous countries in Central America, South America, Asia and Africa. She volunteers annually with local organizations and encourages her students to engage in service projects that uplift others.

Professor DeAnna Huffman exemplifies the heart of Labette Community College’s mission through her unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching, her transformative impact on students, and her dedication to service both locally and globally. Her selection as the 2025 Distinguished Faculty Award recipient not only honors her individual achievements but also reflects the profound influence an inspired educator can have on an entire campus community. LCC is proud to recognize Professor Huffman and celebrate the lasting legacy she continues to build in the lives of her students and colleagues.

For more information about Labette Community College and the Distinguished Faculty Award, visit www.labette.edu.