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Citrus College student receives prestigious scholarship from national foundation
Glendora, Calif. (Aug. 17, 2021) – Rachel Heinz, a business administration major at Citrus College, is one of 207 community college students in the United States to be named a 2021 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise scholar by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation.
The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise scholarship program is designed to aid new members of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the official honor society for the nation's nearly 1,300 community colleges. More than 900 students applied for the program's prestigious scholarships, which are meant to help defray educational expenses for those students enrolled in associate degree programs.
This year, the foundation awarded a total of $207,000 to a select group of two-year students based on their academic achievement, community service and leadership potential. Each honoree received $1,000.
"Citrus College is thrilled that Rachel is one of the outstanding students to be recognized as a 2021 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise scholar," said Dr. Greg Schulz, superintendent/president of Citrus College. "It is impressive that she has received scholastic recognition at this stage in her educational journey. During the year that Rachel has spent at Citrus College, she has established herself as a productive and successful student who will undoubtedly reach new academic heights in the months and years ahead."
Ms. Heinz, a 19-year-old resident of Azusa, enrolled at Citrus College in June 2020. She quickly became involved in Beta Nu Eta, the college's PTK chapter. In fact, Ms. Heinz played an important role in the chapter's award-winning Honors in Action project and was recently elected to serve as its vice president of public relations.
"Last year was hard for almost everyone, but it has been particularly challenging for those students trying to stay involved in leadership positions throughout the campus closure. Rachel and the other chapter members put in extra effort during the pandemic, and it is rewarding to see Rachel being recognized for that," said Brian Waddington, honors transfer coordinator and co-advisor for Beta Nu Eta. "The scholarship will certainly be meaningful in helping Rachel as she pursues her academic goals while at Citrus College. I hope that the recognition will provide her with encouragement and validation for her hard work."
Ms. Heinz says that her academic goals include graduating from Citrus College and then transferring to California State University, Fullerton, to study entertainment management.
"Receiving this scholarship brought me one step closer to furthering my education and pursuing my dreams of working in the music industry. It means a lot to have this extra financial support, especially during these difficult times," she said. "I want to encourage other students to apply for scholarships and, if possible, to become official members of Phi Theta Kappa. There are so many incredible opportunities available, and it is important to give yourself a chance."
Ms. Heinz is the latest in a long line of Citrus College students whose involvement in Phi Theta Kappa has earned acclaim. In fact, Beta Nu Eta students received several special recognitions during PTK's regional and national conventions this spring.
"Rachel Heinz is an excellent example of the outstanding students who comprise Citrus College's Phi Theta Kappa chapter. Her selection as a 2021 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise scholar is not only a testament to her personal success, it also reflects the support she has received from her advisors and peers," said Dr. Patricia A. Rasmussen, president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees. "On behalf of the board of trustees, I congratulate Rachel on this incredible accomplishment. We are certain that she will continue to make many positive contributions to the college throughout her time here."
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