For his dedication, passion and outstanding contributions to education, Highline College is proud to name Dr. Sharratt as its Distinguished Alumnus of 2015.

"Dr. Sharratt represents the ideal Highline College graduate," said Dr. Jack Bermingham, President of Highline. "He has dedicated his life to improving education and fostering student success. He remains an unabashed community college advocate whom we are proud to recognize as the college’s 2015 Distinguished Alumnus."

Sharratt has spent his more than 40-year career in education, whether it be in teaching, administration, research or as an education advocate. He came to Highline College in 1969 as a decorated veteran after serving two years in the U.S. Army stationed in Vietnam. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree in elementary education from Washington State University, a master's in school administration from Pacific Lutheran University and returned to WSU for his doctorate in curriculum.

Sharrat's wide-ranging experience includes teaching elementary school and college students; serving as a principal, school district superintendent and college program director; and leading the Washington Student Achievement Council.

He has earned numerous awards for service, leadership and excellence including the Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Education at Pacific Lutheran University and Distinguished Alumni Spotlight Award from Washington State University.

Sharratt has written or co-written numerous articles on educational leadership that have appeared in peer-reviewed journals and publications. As a sought-after speaker, he shares his knowledge and inspires others in education. He credits his early experience at Highline as the catalyst for his successful career in education.