Two Estrella Mountain Community College students were recognized for their academic achievement and receipt of academic scholarships at the All-Arizona Academic Team Recognition Ceremony held on Thursday, February 18, 2010 on the Mesa Community College campus. The All-Arizona Academic Team recognizes scholarly achievements of students from junior, technical and community colleges. Each student is awarded a full, two-year tuition waiver provided by the Arizona Board of Regents, good at any Arizona public university. Additionally, each college president awards a $1,000 scholarship to members of the first team, a $750 scholarship to members of the second team, and a $500 scholarship to members of the third team. Elementary education major, Monika Groomes was honored as a second team member; and business major, Lauren Hansen was recognized as a third team member. The students are also eligible for the Phi Theta Kappa All-USA recognition program co-sponsored by USA Today.
Criteria for selection included a GPA of 3.25 or higher, good academic standing and working toward an associate degree, and involvement in campus or community volunteerism. Monika and Lauren not only met the above requirements, but surpassed them with their academic excellence and involvement in service learning activities. They each aspire to attend Arizona State University and were very pleased to have been selected for this prestigious award.