Morgan’s Dr. Nilajah Nyasuma Sims Receives National Distinguished Service Award, Joins Honor Society Executive Board

At Morgan State University, Nilajah Nyasuma Sims, Ed.D., drives strategic efforts to expand access, elevate opportunity and champion adult learners through her work as executive director of the Center for Continuing and Professional Studies (CCPS). Now, her impact is being recognized on a national stage.

Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society (ASLHS) selected Dr. Sims as the 2026 recipient of the William C. Hine Distinguished Service Award and appointed her to serve on its Executive Board. The one-year board appointment accompanies the award and reflects her leadership and dedication to advancing adult higher education.

As CCPS's executive director, Dr. Sims leads with a mission-centered focus on serving adult learners, working professionals, and nontraditional students seeking flexible, high-quality academic and professional development pathways. Under her leadership, the Center continues to strengthen Morgan’s commitment to lifelong learning by designing programs that meet students where they are—academically, professionally and personally. Her work ensures that adult learners not only gain access to education but also experience belonging and institutional support throughout their academic journeys.

“Adult learners bring resilience, lived experience and a deep sense of purpose to the classroom,” said Dr. Sims. “At Morgan, we are intentional about creating pathways that embrace their journeys while equipping them to thrive. Being recognized by Alpha Sigma Lambda is an honor and affirms the work we are doing to expand access and champion lifelong learning.”

The William C. Hine Distinguished Service Award honors chapter councilors who demonstrate a commitment to promoting lifelong learning, dedication to serving adult students and leadership within Alpha Sigma Lambda. The award was established in 2002 and named in honor of Dr. William C. Hine, a longtime leader in continuing education who played a pivotal role in strengthening and nationalizing the Society’s presence. As part of the distinction, recipients are appointed to the ASLHS Executive Board for a one-year term, where they contribute insights and guidance to advance the organization.

Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society is a nationally recognized organization dedicated to celebrating the scholarship and leadership of adult students in higher education. Its Executive Board guides the direction and actions of the Society, bringing expertise in adult education, organizational management and mission-driven leadership.

Dr. Sims’s appointment places Morgan State University in a prominent leadership role within a national network committed to supporting adult learners. Her service on the Executive Board will help shape initiatives that recognize academic excellence among nontraditional students and promote the continued growth of adult-focused higher education programs across the country.

Through her work at CCPS and now through national service, Dr. Sims continues to embody Morgan’s commitment to access, excellence and inclusive opportunity, ensuring that adult learners are not only welcomed into higher education but empowered to lead within it.