The Oregon Community College Association (OCCA) is proud to announce the selection of 55 exceptional students from across the state to the 2025 All-Oregon Academic Team (AOAT). These scholars were chosen for their outstanding academic performance, leadership, and dedication to community service. Many are members of Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society for community college students.
“Congratulations to these remarkable students for their excellence in academics, leadership, and service,” said OCCA Board President Austin Folnagy. “We look forward to celebrating their achievements at this year’s recognition luncheon.”
The All-Oregon Academic Team is part of a national effort supported by Phi Theta Kappa, community college presidents, and state associations to spotlight top scholars in 37 participating states. OCCA will host the annual All-Oregon Academic Team Luncheon on April 18 at Chemeketa Community College’s Eola Center in Salem to honor these students and their families. This year’s keynote speaker is State Representative Ricki Ruiz (D-Gresham), a dedicated advocate for education and Oregon’s community colleges.
As part of the celebration, the OCCA Member Services Committee selects several AOAT honorees to share their stories during the luncheon. This year’s featured student speakers are:
- Maria Garcia Villalobos, Linn-Benton Community College
- Makayla Vick, Mt. Hood Community College
- Gina Ferguson, Portland Community College
- Robert Shingleton, Treasure Valley Community College
“Their journeys are powerful and inspiring,” said Folnagy. “We’re deeply grateful to these students for sharing their voices with us.”
Two students have also received national recognition as Coca-Cola New Century Scholars, awarded to the highest-scoring applicants from each state in the All-USA Academic Team competition:
- Emilee Lindquist, Klamath Community College – New Century Transfer Scholar
- Cody Thompson, Clackamas Community College – New Century Workforce Scholar
In addition, Kat Tabor of Lane Community College was named a Bronze Scholar by the Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team, a prestigious national program that honors high-achieving students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership beyond the classroom. Fifty students nationwide are selected in each category—Gold, Silver, and Bronze—and awarded scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $1,500.
For a full list of the 2025 All-Oregon Academic Team honorees, please see the attached document.
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