News Article

NORTH EAST, Md: Cecil College was honored to have four students selected for the Phi Theta Kappa All-Maryland Academic Team in recognition of their academic achievement as community college students in the State of Maryland. During the 30th Annual All-Maryland Community College Recognition Dinner held Wednesday, May 1, at Turf Valley Resort and Convention Center, Cecil College’s Jaylah Tyjani-Thai Williams, and Angela Teague, Patricia Johnson, and Rebecca Scarborough were among the community college students honored on the state level.

“It was such an honor to present our students with their medallions. They are true examples of the excellence community college students perform both in the classroom and in the community,” said Cecil College President Dr. Mary Way Bolt.

The Maryland All-State Academic Team Recognition Awards Program was created in 1995 to recognize Maryland community college students’ academic achievements and leadership. This recognition qualifies them for a nomination for the All-USA Community College Academic Team.

Williams, who is majoring in Social Work and Cybersecurity, was honored as a member of the First Academic Team. She has been accepted to transfer to Western Governors University in the fall.

“My career goal is to become a clinical social worker and eventually establish my own practice. I plan to focus on helping teenagers and young adults because I understand what it’s like not to be heard or understood as they navigate through life,” said Williams, who appreciated the opportunities PTK provided her to shine as a leader and network with other PTK members. “I was able to help set up an event for our members, along with contacting different charities to set up donations for them.”

Teague also received First Academic Team honors as she works toward completing her Associate of Fine Arts degree with an eye on transferring into a bachelor’s program.

“I want to find a career that allows me to create art, create comraderies within my community, and be able to support my family. Cecil College’s Alpha Alpha Theta Chapter for PTK provided me with the opportunity to learn about, support, and bond with employees and students on campus. PTK has allowed me to explore my leadership through kindness and involvement,” said Teague.

Scarborough was named to the Second Academic Team as she completes her associate degree in computer programming. She plans to pursue a career in the IT industry, possibly as a software engineer.

“PTK positively impacted my college experience, as I have received recognition, confidence, and support which will carry through into my career,” said Scarborough.

Johnson was also selected to the Second Academic Team for her studies in the paramedic program. Upon earning her paramedic license, she plans to continue volunteering within the community.

Students are nominated for this honor by their college presidents and Phi Theta Kappa advisors and recognized by the Maryland Council of Community College Presidents and the Maryland Association of Community Colleges. This recognition qualifies them for local, regional, state, and national scholarships through PTK.

Phi Theta Kappa recognizes and encourages the academic achievement of two-year college students while providing opportunities for individual growth and development through academics, leadership, and service programming. It is the largest honor society in American higher education, established in 1918 by two Missouri two-year college presidents.