MESA, Ariz. – October 30, 2026 – Mesa Community College (MCC) student Albert Lin Jr., has been named an Oberndorf Scholar by Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society and has received a $1,500 scholarship.
The Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarship helps PTK members across the country overcome unanticipated financial barriers preventing the completion of their first college credential, associate degree or certificate.
Lin, who is studying electrical engineering at MCC is working toward an Associate in Science degree and plans to graduate in May 2027. His goal is to transfer to Arizona State University to earn a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.
“While facing challenges related to language learning, cultural differences and balancing school with work, I have continued pursuing my education and professional training. This scholarship provides meaningful financial assistance and, just as importantly, encouragement,” said Lin, who is from Taiwan.
The Tempe resident hopes to pursue opportunities in Arizona’s energy and semiconductor industries, particularly in thermal energy, nuclear power or semiconductor manufacturing. He is also interested in occupational safety.
“By combining my engineering education, semiconductor training and safety knowledge, I hope to help solve technical problems, support safer workplaces and contribute to Arizona’s development,” added Lin. “ I will continue learning and working hard so I can use my skills to serve my community.”
Lin also co-invented a cooking pot with an oil-filtering feature that received a Taiwanese invention patent. The device helps separate excess fat when preparing stews containing meat and vegetables, making it easier to prepare nutritious, lighter meals.
He has complemented his passion for innovation, problem-solving and using technology to improve lives with extensive community service in both Arizona and Taiwan.
“The Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarship represents the transformative power of investing in students and their futures,” said Puvana Ganesan, Ph.D., PTK Omicron Beta Chapter advisor at MCC.
“MCC recognizes that the path to completing a college education can come with challenges, and this scholarship provides meaningful support and encouragement for students to persevere and achieve their goals.” She added, “We are proud of Albert Lin and grateful for opportunities like this that affirm our students’ potential and help them move closer to realizing their educational and career aspirations.”
The scholarship is named for its benefactors, Rosemary and Lou Oberndorf. Lou co-founded METI, a world leader in medical education technology whose products are used in many community colleges as well as in the world’s leading medical schools. He is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation Board of Trustees.
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Media contact: Dawn Zimmer, 480-461-7892, [email protected]
Mesa Community College (MCC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, and innovative education. Serving more than 23,000 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 5,677 hours of community service annually. MCC serves as a key resource for education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest Indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges, supporting students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education, training and undergraduate research opportunities. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu/newsroom.
MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.
The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO 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.