Rachael Howard, WSCO PTK member honored at statehouse

MARIETTA, OH (May 3, 2017)–WSCO’s Alpha Rho Gamma chapter of Phi Theta Kappa announced two of its members were selected to the Ohio Association of Community College All-Ohio Academic Team. Rachael Howard and Jeremy Dotson along with more than 50 other Ohio students were recently honored at a luncheon and ceremony at the Ohio Statehouse Atrium.

“I think it is fantastic that WSCO was represented at the OACC Luncheon by Rachael and Jeremy. They represent the best of Washington State College of Ohio,” declared Brad Merritt WSCO Professor and Phi Theta Kappa Advisor. “The OACC All-Ohio Academic Team recognizes high achieving two-year college students who demonstrate academic excellence and intellectual rigor combined with leadership and service that extends their education beyond the classroom to benefit society, and that is what Rachael and Jeremy exemplify” he continued.

Howard was awarded All-Ohio First-Team Honors and received a $1,000 scholarship and was also recognized as a Coca-Cola Silver Scholar and will receive a $1,250 scholarship. “It was impressive to be honored in the State House and it meant a lot to have Dr. and Mrs. Ebersole, as well as Dr. Nutter there to support us,” expressed Howard. “It will be a moment that will continually give me strength and support as I continue my academic journey and will serve as a reminder that hard work and dedication often come with great reward.”

Dotson, WSCO’s Phi Theta Kappa Vice President of Honors in Action, was recognized with All-Ohio Second Team Honors. “This was a great opportunity for me. Out of all the applicants, I feel privileged to be chosen for Second Team,” said Dotson. “I made some good contacts that I think will help me in the future.” Dotson, who plans to attend Marietta College in the fall, also received a $500 scholarship.

The All-Ohio Academic Team Awards works to promote academic excellence and intellectual rigor, leadership, and service, and the extension of education beyond the classroom to benefit society. To be eligible for the All-Ohio Academic Team, students must be nominated by their college president; be eligible to graduate during the current academic year; and have a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.25.

Earlier this year, the chapter also received awards at the Phi Theta Kappa Regional Convention, including Continued Excellence Award, an award for their Voter’s Registration Project and the Honors in Action Theme Award for the chapter’s research on the water quality in Southeastern Ohio.

For 45 years, Washington State College of Ohio has fueled the community’s future through education. We work to make a positive impact by providing opportunities for growth. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or an adult student looking to enrich your life, we cultivate pathways to guide you toward future growth. Be inspired. Be WSCO. For more information about Washington State College of Ohio, visit www.wscc.edu or call 740.374.8716.