The Grayson County College Honors College has awarded scholarships totaling $21,000 for the 2009-2010 academic year. Fifteen students were named Presidential Scholars, and each received a Presidential Scholarship of $1,400 ($700 per semester) for tuition or other school-related expenses at the GCC Bookstore.

The Presidential Scholars were selected from students accepted to GCC’s Honors College. The competitive process included valuations based on their GPAs, extracurricular activities and recommendations.

“Scholarship and service are critical components of the Honors College,” said Dr. Jean Sorensen, Honors College coordinator. “These students are the best of the best enrolled in the program.”

Sorensen believes GCC develops honors students at the college by providing excellence in education through learning-centered honors sections of core courses. In addition, students are expected to participate in the cultural, social and public service activities of the campus and community.

“Students who are fully engaged in academic and service opportunities are better equipped for future success,” Sorensen said.
Denison freshman Caleb McKearan is one of seven 2009 high school graduates to be named a Presidential Scholar. The rest of the scholars are returning GCC students.

“This scholarship is a major blessing financially,” McKearan said. “The Honors College is helping me reach my life goals by giving me opportunities to advance academically, serve my community, and prepare for my transition to a four-year university.”

Presidential Scholars (listed by hometown) include: Bells: Derrick Goracke; Denison: Caleb McKearan, Kaila Perkins, Joanna Ramirez, Karis Windle; Gabon, Africa: Julius Mbina, Yayragan Keola; Gunter: Kenneth Horn; Sadler: Kayleigh Willis; Sherman: Angela Aukes, Shay Cavender, Joshua Cole; Van Alstyne: Richard McCarter, Bethany West; and Whitesboro: Nathan Shepherd.