February 13, 2017

TWO NPC STUDENTS SELECTED FOR SWASAP SCHOLARSHIPS

npc scholarship studentsHot Springs, Arkansas – National Park College (NPC) students Keanna Peck and Howard Cheresnick were each awarded a scholarship from the Southwest Association of Student Assistance Programs (SWASAP), the regional professional association for TRIO Programs.

The scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate leadership potential at school and in their communities. Dean of Students, John Tucker said, “TRIO students from five states applied for these limited funds and it is rare for two students to be awarded from the same college.”

Peck graduated from Lake Hamilton High School and is a criminal justice student at NPC. She is involved on campus as a student ambassador and the Cultural Diversity Awareness Club. She also serves as a work-study student on campus. She has completed internships with the Garland County Juvenile Court and in Congressman Westerman’s office, and teaches dance classes to students ages 3-13 in the evenings. Diane Meredith, Talent Search Director said, “Keanna is loved by her students, peers, and all of the faculty and staff she comes in contact with. She is such a unique and amazing young lady, with an energy and charisma that is rarely seen in someone her age.” Peck will graduate in May and plans to transfer to Henderson State University to major in political science before applying law school. She hopes to practice juvenile or family law before serving as a lobbyist or political correspondent.

Cheresnick is a nontraditional student working toward an education degree. He is the president of Phi Theta Kappa honors society and also serves as a student ambassador. As president, he initiated a peer mentoring program that enables students to receive mentoring from other students. He also volunteers as a soccer coach for Lake Hamilton High School and with the Garland County Master Gardeners. NPC Advisor, Stephanie Rizzo said, “As the parent of a child with autism, he has been an advocate for making sure that his child and others with special needs get the resources they need to overcome obstacles and achieve success. He will make an incredible instructor and his servant attitude and desire for others to succeed make him and excellent candidate for the scholarship.” Cheresnick will graduate in May and plans to transfer to Henderson State University to pursue a degree in Special Education.