Caitlin Peterson
In Motion Staff Writer
Annually, Daytona State College holds an Outstanding Student Awards Convocation. This year, 175 students, three employees and one successful alumnus all received recognition for their hard work and contributions to the local community and the college.
Dr. Michelle Lee, an associate professor of composition and creative writing is this year’s recipient of the Presidential Teaching Excellence Award, which recognizes her unwavering dedication to teaching and promoting student learning.
The recipients of Employee Excellence awards are Lead Receiving Clerk Grady Babbs and Manager of DSC’s News- Journal Center Chad Smith.
The Margaret Crumley Award for Distinguished Achievement in Science annually honors an outstanding alumnus who earned an associate degree from the College of Science at DSC. This
year, dentist Dr. Barry Cates received this honor. Dr. Cates has provided dental care to residents of nursing homes in Central Florida for reduced fees and has volunteered with the Volusia County March of Dimes. He also participates in the annual Give Kid’s a Smile Day, which provides free dental services to economically disadvantaged children.
Michelle Cretella / In Motion
Among the student honorees, 32 were named to the Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges program. The Who’s Who organization creates a yearly academic publication that assembles a list of exceptional students in the United States. Students are included in the list based on campus leadership, meeting a minimum GPA requirement and their contributions to the community.
Students were also recognized for their athletic achievements, academic accomplishments and community service.
Additionally, awards were given to outstanding students who attend the Flagler/Palm Coast, Deland, Deltona and New Smyrna Beach campuses.
The most distinguished award, granted to only 14 students is an induction into the college’s Hall of Fame. Awarded by the faculty, induction is based on academic achievement and leadership.
“I expect we will hear more about many education and move into their respective careers. I know they will all achieve great things,” said Interim President Dr. Thomas LoBasso, who presented awards and spoke at the event.
The awards convocation precedes the college’s graduation ceremonies that will take place on Monday, May 18, at 2 p.m. for A.A. and Bachelor’s degrees and 6:30 p.m. for A.S, A.A.S, Adult Education and Certificates. The Daytona State College Commencement Ceremonies will be held at the Ocean Center , 101 N Atlantic Ave, Daytona Beach.