Bucknell University Scholar: Tierra Jones

As a part of its commitment to expanding access to talented and dedicated scholars in the region, Bucknell University has established a scholarship program in cooperation with Garrett College. The two-year, highly competitive scholarship, is needs-based and is awarded to community college scholars who have attained high academic achievement. The recipient of this prestigious distinction receives a full two-year transfer scholarship to Bucknell University.

Hometown: Waldorf, MD

Major: Liberal Arts

Future Plans: Attending Bucknell University to major in English to obtain a career in public relations, publishing, or writing.

GC Activities: Student assistant with the Residence Life department, president of Student Government Association (SGA), vice president of GC's Alpha Omicron Phi Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK), and a student ambassador with the Admissions department.

In her own words:

On choosing GC: I knew I would have to start small, but I didn't want to start in the same place I was in. My sister told me about Garrett College, so I applied not thinking much of it until registration day. On registration day, I immediately felt at home and knew I'd made the right decision.

On her experience at GC: I have most loved the feeling of communal support that I've received since being a student here.

On her future: My next step is Bucknell! The summer experience and transfer scholarship offered a perfect home to finish my bachelor's degree! I am grateful for the opportunity and excited to get to work when the time comes. My advice to others is to believe in yourself and trust your dreams!

Scholar Athlete Co-Winner Merlon Devine

Garrett College is proud of its student athletes who combine excellence in competition with excellence in the classroom. Each year we recognize graduating student athletes that have obtained the highest GPA.

Hometown: La Plata, MD (La Plata High School)

Major: Business Administration

Future Plans: Transferring to Stevenson University to pursue a bachelor's degree in business and play for the NCAA Division III Mustangs.

GC Activities: Men's basketball team, President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, student tutor

In his own words:

On his career plans: I just want to continue to pursue business as a profession. I hope to use an entrepreneurial mindset to guide me.

On best GC memories: Being part of the basketball team – of course! – and going to the church right down the street (McHenry United Methodist Church) and being part of the community. Garrett County's a good place to meet people and build relationships – and give back when you can. I was able to talk to Ms. [Kym] Newmann and volunteer at the food pantry from time to time.

Outstanding Transfer Student and Scholar Athlete Co-Winner Jose Vitale Perez

Outstanding Transfer Student

Selected on behalf of the faculty at Garrett College, the Outstanding Transfer Student is a student who receives an Associate of Arts Degree or an Associate of Science in Engineering Degree and is transferring to a 4-year institution. The student is chosen for their excellence and enthusiasm in the classroom, and qualities of leadership.

Scholar-Athlete Co-Winner

Garrett College is proud of its student athletes who combine excellence in competition with excellence in the classroom. Each year we recognize graduating student athletes that have obtained the highest GPA.

Hometown: Valencia, Venezuela

Major: Computer Science

Future Plans: Attending West Virginia University and become a software developer

GC Activities: Catcher on the Lakers' baseball team and involved in international student activities, including visits to Garrett County elementary schools.

In his own words:

On his career plans: I started as a business administration major, but I've always liked computers. I've also been good at math, and anything regarding logic has always appealed to me.

On visiting local schools: It was a really nice experience. The elementary school kids were awesome. They were very interested in learning about Venezuela.

On best GC memories: I really liked road trips with the baseball team and going and playing in different stadiums. And just hanging out in the cafeteria with my friends. I'm really thankful for the staff – they've been so helpful. Melissa Wass helped me with any questions I had about the international student process, and Richard Lewis has been a really good professor. I'm really grateful to all of the faculty and staff.

Inspiration and Excellence Award: Dreama Tennant

In the quest for a college education there are students who encounter and overcome many different obstacles. Sometimes such a student persists in attaining these goals not only with dedication but with cheerfulness, a positive attitude, and an irrepressible spirit of enthusiasm that is an inspiration to other students and faculty.

Hometown: Fairmont, WV (University HS)

Major: Cybersecurity

Future Plans: Potentially work for the FBI

In her own words:

On starting over: I worked at Mylan Pharmaceuticals in manufacturing when I was laid off in 2018. I had bills, a big old house payment, and I didn't have any way to make the money I needed to make to pay my bills. The "Workforce West Virginia" program paid tuition, travel expenses, and books for those who were laid off to get a degree or certification. At the same time, it increased unemployment from 26 weeks to 130 weeks as long as we were still in school and making the grades.

On choosing a computer-based career: I spoke with Richard Lewis and he told me about the program. I said, “Hey I don't know anything about computers,” and he said, “That's all right – we'll teach you.” I had 30-some credits from WVU and I think 29 of those were transferrable. I transferred all of my Gen Ed requirements and added in extra computer classes to get extra certifications.

On persevering: There's a certain amount of computer knowledge you should have, and I didn't. I had to really work at it. Richard Lewis is a very good teacher – he knows how to teach the material to people who don't have a clue – like myself. And I maintained a straight-A average.”

On building bonds with other students: I'm 53 years old, but it was fun getting to know the kids in the classes even though they're only 18 or 19. And they supported me – I got a text from one when I wasn't online right away for a class asking me where I was!

Leadership and Excellence Award: Zachary Friend

The following individual has been selected for displaying the qualities of a leader among his or her peers.

Hometown: Swanton (Homeschooled)

Major: Math/Science

Future Plans: Attend West Virginia University to become an orthodontist

GC Activities: President/Treasurer of GC's chapter of the PTK International Honor Society.

In his own words:

On best GC Memories: That would be A & P class with Carolyn Deniker – really good course and a really good teacher – and being a science tutor. I was tutoring a student who just needed a better grade in her anatomy class. When she told me she had gotten the second-highest grade on a test in that class, it was a really good memory to be able to help someone like that.

On getting involved: In PTK, we worked with the Health Department on health-related grants, including one [called Brightening Lives through Brighter Smiles] to assemble and distribute dental health packs to those in need in Garrett County.

Highest GPA Award and Outstanding Career Advancement Student: Aryssa Corby

Outstanding Career Advancement Student

The Career Advancement Student, also selected by faculty, receives an Associate of Applied Science Degree and plans to enter a career, although many of these students also go on to a four-year institution. The student is chosen for their excellence and enthusiasm in the classroom, and qualities of leadership.

Highest GPA Award

At this time, it is fitting that we recognize the attainment of excellence in academic achievement. This award is presented to the student who has maintained the Highest Grade Point Average while completing 60 or more hours of college credit classes in studies at Garrett College is:

Hometown: Swanton (Southern Garrett graduate)

Major: Business Management and Entrepreneurship

Future Plans: Own and operate a reptile rescue

GC Activities: Garrett College Wildlife Club

In her own words:

On life goals: My classes have pushed me toward the hopes of having a reptile rescue of my own. I have a small-scale one now, but it would be interesting to have a larger one around here.

On GC connection: All through my years in the public school system, we went to Garrett College for various activities and shows. It [attending GC] was my idea from the beginning – it was definitely the starting point I wanted to have.

On Best GC memories: Spring Wildlife Club trip to Arizona: It was amazing. It's unbelievable out there.