Washburn University names Peavler family as 2022 “Family of the Year”

      Topeka, Kan. – Today Washburn University officially named the Peavler family as the “Family of the Year.” This designation honors their family’s dedication to, support of and enthusiasm for the university over the decades. It also acknowledges their embodiment of the Washburn University motto, Non Nobis Solum - Not for Ourselves Alone.

       The Peavlers’ story at Washburn is woven through themes of family and commitment, especially the bonds of siblings, that exemplifies Washburn’s mission of intentionally developing and engaging in relationships to enhance educational experiences and the community – at Washburn and beyond. Sisters Shannon Herbers Peavler, ba ’93, and Shelly Herbers Blanding, bsn ’95, really began the Peavlers’ family story on campus when they chose the same university.

       Shannon and Mike Peavler’s sons, Brooks, bsn ’21, and Brent, junior, repeated the pattern of siblings choosing to study together at Washburn when both chose the Washburn University School of Nursing, and to play football for the university. For years these brothers played side by side as inside linebackers.

       “Our family has always been around Topeka and the Washburn University campus, so when my brother and I earned scholarships to go to Washburn and play football, it was a no brainer,” said Brooks Peavler. “Our parents always encouraged us to go to college and we were lucky enough to get to play football in our hometown, for a university that means so much to our family.”

       During the fall, you will find the Peavler family tailgating and cheering on the Washburn University football team. Mike Peavler is normally in the tailgating area near Yager Stadium, starting to set up the football families’ tailgate by 9 a.m. on Washburn home football game days. He wants to be there to speak to each football player as they’re returning from breakfast, and maybe add an extra piece of bacon or two to their meal from his grill.

        “Family is important to us, it’s the foundation of who we are,” said Shannon Peavler. “Mike wants to be there at every game to be that show of the Washburn football family and support for each player, especially those whose family may not be able travel in for every game.”

Washburn University graduates and students being recognized

Steven Peavler ba’86, works in ITS for the U.S. Postal Service

Shannon Herbers Peavler, ba ’93, worked in sales and development

Shelly Herbers Blanding, bsn ’95, nurse for KU MedWest

Dr. Marcus Peavler, ba ’15, chiropractor

Ashley Jurgens Peavler, MAcc ’17, works for Cummins, Coffman & Schmidtlein, CPA’s

Brooks Peavler, bsn ’21, nurse for the University of Kansas St. Francis campus

Brent Peavler, current student and on the football team

       Recognizing a family of the year is an annual tradition at Washburn University that normally occurs as part of Family Weekend celebrations, during the football game.

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