National Park College (NPC) student Kimberly Womack of Mesquite, Texas, has been named NPC’s 2025 Arkansas Community Colleges (ACC) Academic All-Star Scholarship recipient.
A 1997 graduate of North Mesquite High School, Womack is currently pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology at NPC, with plans to graduate in spring 2026. After completing her degree, she intends to earn certifications as a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) and Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT).
“My goal is to start with physician office coding and work my way up to become an auditor,” Womack said.
Womack’s journey back to college was driven by affordability and flexibility. “Community college is much more affordable, and NPC had several options in the medical field for me to choose,” she said. Initially planning to study radiologic technology, she later shifted to health information technology to better accommodate her schedule.
Her academic journey has been marked by resilience and growth. “I went from a 2.5 GPA in high school to a 4.0 GPA in college,” Womack said. “I’ve learned how to push through hard moments and reach out when I need assistance.”
Womack, who lives with ADHD and works full-time, credits NPC’s disability services and faculty support for helping her succeed. “Although I only needed a little extra time for testing, it helped to not feel rushed. With my anxiety lowered, I was able to focus better on the test,” she said.
Outside the classroom, Womack enjoys spending time with family, camping, fishing, and reading. She said her experience at NPC has helped her grow both personally and professionally.
“I’ve learned how to work through hardships, gained extensive Microsoft skills, and developed a strong understanding of medical laws and regulations,” she said. “This knowledge will help me obtain my certification and begin my new career.”
Womack encourages prospective students to take full advantage of NPC’s resources. “Pay attention in orientation when these resources are explained, so that you know what to ask for,” she advised.
Receiving the ACC Academic All-Star Scholarship has been a meaningful milestone. “I feel honored and humbled that NPC chose me,” she said. “This scholarship means I can finish my degree without worrying about how to pay for it. I’ll begin my career without added debt.”
Leigh Turner, NPC Health Information Technology Program Director, praised Womack’s dedication and growth.
“Kimberly is thoughtful, determined, and consistently goes above and beyond to understand the course material,” Turner said. “Her commitment to her education is not just about building a better future for herself but also for her children. That kind of dedication is exactly what the Academic All-Star Award recognizes.”