MCC student earns scholarship trifecta

Christopher HuntChristopher Hunt, a recipient of multiple prestigious scholarships . Christopher Hunt receives three prestigious scholarships for outstanding academic achievements

MESA, Arizona – April 4, 2019 – Mesa Community College student Christopher Hunt (Mesa), a 2019 All-Arizona Academic First Team scholar, receives three additional prestigious scholarships to aid in the attainment of his educational goals.

As one of only 20 in the country to be named a 2019 All-USA Academic Team Scholar, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society member Hunt receives a $5,000 scholarship for demonstrating academic excellence and intellectual rigor combined with leadership and service that benefits society.

Additionally, he receives $5,000 and a commemorative medallion for being selected as one of 15 nationally selected 2019 Guistwhite Scholars, based on academic achievement, leadership accomplishment and engagement in PTK programs. It is named in honor of the late Margaret and Dr. Jack Guistwhite, who established the first transfer scholarship designated exclusively for Phi Theta Kappa PTK members to Florida Atlantic University in 1975.

Finally, Hunt is the first MCC student to earn a $500 PTK Honors Case Study Challenge. The Challenge provides members an enhanced learning experience using newspapers, print or online, and encourages them to stay abreast of current events.

"Receiving these scholarships shows a culmination of everything I've accomplished during my three years at MCC,” said Hunt. “The All-USA Scholarship comes from establishing the Educators Rising program at MCC. It's a legacy that I leave behind for future educators to learn and grow. The Guistwhite Scholarship shows my extensive involvement in Phi Theta Kappa over the years. Phi Theta Kappa has been my family since I came to MCC, and this scholarship proves my dedication to that family.”

Hunt will transfer to Northern Arizona University to earn a teaching degree following MCC graduation in May. He plans to become an elementary school teacher and eventually a principal, hoping to one day serve on a school board or as a superintendent.

“The Honors Case Study Challenge allowed me to do research in a topic that matters to me-the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals,” said Hunt. “It allowed me to look into and stay informed on the issue, and it's something I continue to follow. I'm proud of the things I've accomplished at MCC and I couldn't have done it without the support of my friends, the faculty and staff at MCC, and my family who encouraged me to go back to school in the first place. MCC started my journey. These scholarships will help me see how this journey continues."

# # #

Media Contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7892

Mesa Community Collegeis nationally recognized as an Aspen Prize Top 150 U.S. Community College and is known for service learning, career and technical programs, civic engagement and innovative approaches to education. The college serves as a resource for career readiness, transfer education, workforce development and lifelong learning. Host to more than 30,000 students annually, MCC offers degree and certificate programs online, at its two campuses, the Mesa Downtown Center and additional locations. Through the implementation of Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services, MCC is transforming ways it champions student success; college completion, university transfer and career attainment for all students. MCC is a Hispanic Serving Institution. The diverse student body includes more than 400 international students representing over 60 countries. Award-winning faculty are dedicated to student success, providing the education and training to empower MCC students to compete locally and globally. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, MCC is one of the 10 colleges in the Maricopa County Community College District. Learn more at mesacc.edu.

Mesa Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.

Source Details

Publication Date: 
Thursday, April 4, 2019