The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) has recognized five Morgan Community College (MCC) students for their academic excellence, leadership, and community service. MCC’s honorees are Aaron Sierra and Kelsi Smits (Rising Star Award recipients); Kate Acevedo Landeros (Inclusive Excellence Champion); and Anai Macias Castellanos and Raul Hernandez Robles (Phi Theta Kappa All-Colorado Academic Team members).
“Congratulations to MCC’s deserving students,” stated Dr. Curt Freed, MCC President. “This annual selection of student excellence awards always brings to light how many students MCC has who are doing remarkable work both in and out of the classroom. Their academic interest and altruistic spirit lend insight to their future endeavors.”
MCC’s Rising Stars, Aaron Sierra, and Kelsi Smits, were selected for their outstanding leadership on campus and in the community.
Aaron Sierra will graduate from MCC in spring 2024 with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology. He plans to further his education in pursuit of a career in Sports Medicine. Sierra’s academic excellence is evidenced by his recognition on the President’s, Vice Presidents,’ and Deans’ lists. He has been a prominent figure on the MCC campus, engaging in the Gaming and Multicultural Clubs and campus events. Sierra has contributed to the MCC community as a work-study student in the Student Center, where he assisted fellow students in accessing resources. He also served as a mentor and guide for incoming MCC students and visiting high school students during the 2023 Summer Bridge Program and STEM Festival.
Kelsi Smits will graduate spring 2024 with an Associate of Arts degree in Psychology. Her dedication to excellence is demonstrated through her impressive academic record, which includes being inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society and being named to MCC’s President’s List. Beyond her academic achievements, Smits serves in the MCC Welcome Center, assisting students and college guests. She is a proactive leader on campus and engages in a variety of volunteer activities, contributing both to the college community and beyond. Smits plans to further her education at the University of Northern Colorado, aiming for a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Educational Psychology.
Kate Acevedo Landeros was named MCC’s Inclusive Excellence Champion. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion on their campuses. Acevedo Landeros will graduate spring 2024 with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology. She is following in the footsteps of her mother and brother, who are proud alumni of Morgan Community College. Acevedo Landeros’ experience feeling like an outsider at times in her life profoundly shaped her values and actions. She recognizes that many people face unseen struggles, and is deeply committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity and kindness in all her interactions, including at MCC. Kate serves as a Peer Tutor at the college and is highly involved in many student events.
Anai Macias Castellanos and Raul Hernandez Robles were selected to represent MCC on the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-Colorado Academic Team, a group of high-achieving students from the thirteen community colleges throughout the Colorado Community College System.
Anai Macias Castellano will graduate from MCC in the spring of 2024 with an Associate of Arts degree in Business. She is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Anai was motivated by her grandparents and father to attend college, as they taught her that higher education is vital to connecting with the world and enriching future generations. After graduation, Anai plans to transfer to a four-year university to pursue a degree in international business. She aspires to start a local business to help support communities in need and to share her culture and heritage with the world.
Raul Hernandez Robles is a first-generation student and will graduate from MCC in the spring of 2024 with an Associate of Science degree. Raul has served as President of MCC’s STEM Club and is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. During his first year at MCC, faculty supported his dream of becoming a medical researcher. In the summer of 2023, Raul participated in the Carolina Summer Fellowship Research Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The experience inspired him to set his sights on achieving a doctorate in Pharmacology. After graduation from MCC, Raul plans to transfer to a Colorado university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience.
Morgan Community College’s award winners will be honored at the CCCS Student Excellence Award Ceremony on April 10, 2024, in the Seawell Ballroom at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Students will be presented with award medallions, certificates, and memorabilia from CCCS and MCC. They will also be recognized on the CCCS and MCC websites and through social media and press releases.
To learn more about educational opportunities at MCC, visit www.morgancc.edu or call 1-800-622-0216. For more information about CCCS, visit www.cccs.edu/.
