Robert Prusak ’86 – 2025 Distinguished Alum

For Robert Prusak, growing up on his family’s ranch in Ulm, Wyoming, becoming a nurse was the last thing on his mind. He began his academic journey at the University of Wyoming, earning a degree in Microbiology. However, with limited job opportunities in the field, he returned to the ranch and took a job at a nursing home in Sheridan. It was there that a supervisor recognized his potential and encouraged him to apply to the nursing program at Sheridan College — realizing he had already completed most of the prerequisites.

In 1984, Prusak enrolled in the program, earning his LPN in the first year and his RN the following year. “One of the greatest things about Sheridan College was that I could work full-time on the ranch while going to school,” he recalls. “The cost was minimal, and the instructors were outstanding. At UW, I felt like just a blip on the radar, but at Sheridan College, I knew everyone by name, and I could talk to my instructors anytime.”

After graduation, Prusak joined Sheridan Memorial Hospital as the Infectious Disease Coordinator, eventually becoming one of only 10% of RNs nationwide to earn certification in the field. He also took on the role of Employee Health Coordinator, overseeing the well-being of 430 hospital employees. In 1994, he was honored as Employee of the Year. Shortly after, he retired from nursing and returned to ranching full-time.

In 2013 Prusak was invited to serve as a trustee for the Whitney Benefits Foundation. Intrigued by the opportunity, he accepted and soon found himself acting as a liaison between Whitney Benefits and the Sheridan College Nursing Program. “Years after leaving nursing to ranch full-time, I was suddenly fully involved again in the Sheridan College Nursing Program—and I loved it!” he says.

Prusak joined the advisory board for the SC Nursing program, and his duties as liaison were expanded to cover the Dental Hygiene program as well. He works closely with program leaders to identify specific needs and allocate funding where it’s most impactful. Prusak also serves as a liaison between Whitney Benefits and Sheridan School District #3, helping implement career pathways that bring more trade education opportunities to high school students.

Prusak’s connection to Sheridan College is a family tradition. His wife was a fellow nursing student, and his son is an alumnus of the SC Technology Programs. “We all received a great education and were able to secure well-paying jobs right out of school—for a minimal cost. You can’t beat the value!”

Now, through his work with Whitney Benefits, Prusak is helping ensure future generations have access to the same opportunities. “I’m incredibly fortunate to work with talented individuals at Sheridan College, Whitney Benefits, and the local schools, all united in a shared vision: making quality education accessible to all students.”

Sheridan College and the community are lucky to have such a dedicated, humble, and passionate advocate working to support our students, programs, and the future of education.

SC is proud to recognize Robert Prusak ’86 as our Sheridan College 2025 Distinguished Alum!