Rhodes State College Celebrates Graduates Selected for Academic Accolades

Rhodes State College celebrated four of its outstanding graduates were chosen to represent the All-Ohio Academic Team, a collaboration between the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC) and Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) national honor society. These students demonstrated exemplary academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a commitment to extending their intellectual talents beyond the classroom.

The honored graduates are:

  • Deziree Lynn Ayers, Wapakoneta, Addictions, Mental Health, and Social Work Assistant
  • Samantha Marie Knepper, Delphos, Radiographic Imaging
  • Rachel Gail Shelton, Suffolk, VA, Addictions, Mental Health, and Social Work Assistant
  • Bethany Lynn Wallace, Ohio City, Digital Marketing and Media

All are set to graduate on May 4th at Rhodes State’s commencement ceremony held at the Veteran’s Memorial Civic and Convention Center in downtown Lima.  Selected from among 18 Ohio two-year colleges, these graduates joined a prestigious cohort of 56 students recognized as the state’s best and brightest on the All-Ohio Academic Team.

In addition, Samantha Knepper also received the esteemed New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar award. Ms. Knepper's selection as the New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar underscores her exceptional academic accomplishments, resilience, and commitment to community service. Despite encountering numerous challenges along her academic journey, she has consistently demonstrated unwavering determination and dedication to her studies and community.

Notably, Ms. Knepper's personal journey in overcoming a medical condition has significantly influenced her perspective on life. Reflecting on her experiences, she remarked, "It has taught me to be a more observant, charitable person and to appreciate a healthy life." This profound realization has not only shaped her character but has also inspired her career choice in Radiographic Imaging, a field she is deeply passionate about.

In recognition of her remarkable achievements, Ms. Knepper will be awarded a $1,500 scholarship, generously sponsored by the Coca-Cola Foundation, with additional support provided by Phi Theta Kappa.

Ms. Knepper will be formally honored at the Association of Community College Trustees' Leadership Congress, scheduled to take place from October 23-26, 2024, in Seattle, Washington. This event will provide her with a platform to showcase her achievements and network with leaders and scholars from across the nation.

For further inquiries, please contact Ann Best at Best.A@rhodesstate.edu or 419-995-8080.