(KNZA)--The Executive Vice President of Highland Community College has been honored for making major contributions to the advancement of social justice in higher education.

According to a release from the college, Jennifer Schiller received the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators Region IV-WEST Social Justice and Inclusion Award during the association's regional conference, held this past Sunday through Tuesday, in St. Louis, Missouri.

The release says Schiller has led several initiatives to increase awareness and support of underrepresented students, having developed inclusive policies, expanded student support, and facilitated college-wide training on cultural competency and equity in education.

Schiller, in a statement, said shes "incredibly honored" to receive the recognition, adding that she shares the "award with the dedicated faculty, staff and students at Highland who are committed to building a more inclusive community.”