America Burnett, a student at Cleveland State Community College, is one of 207 Phi Theta Kappa members named a 2018 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar and will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are also encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in Society programs and are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service, and leadership potential.
More than 1,200 applications were received.
A total of $207,000 is awarded through the Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program. The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation provides $200,000 in funding for the scholarships, with $25,000 set aside for members who are veterans or active members of the U.S. military. The remaining amount is supported by donations to the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation and provides seven Global Leaders of Promise Scholarships, earmarked for international students.
“The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, executive vice president and president-elect of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa, make it possible for more deserving students to achieve their educational goals, and support tomorrow’s leaders of the global community.”
The funds provided by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation not only aid college completion, but also give students the opportunity to engage in Society programs and develop leadership skills to become future leaders in their communities.
Ms. Burnette said, “I filled out the scholarship application, but didn’t really think I’d win. I was so excited when I found out that I won because this was very competitive! That’s $1000 that I didn’t have!”
“Research shows that Phi Theta Kappa members are four times more likely to complete a college degree than their peers,” said Dr. Monica Marlowe, Executive Director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation. “The Leaders of Promise Scholarships recognize students for what they have achieved already and assure that financial need isn’t an obstacle to achieving their academic goals.”
“I am thrilled that America has been chosen to receive this scholarship recognizing her leadership skills,” stated Holly Shiveley, PTK advisor. “As one of our chapter's officers, she has already demonstrated her ability to motivate others, her attention to details, and hard work ethic. We look forward to what she will accomplish and how she will lead this year.”
Ms. Burnette is not only involved in PTK, but she also serves as a CSCC Ambassador and is a member of the CSCC Honors Program. She is still undecided about what four-year college or university where she will transfer after CSCC, but plans to major in business administration. She plans to use her scholarship money to travel abroad with CSCC’s Honors Program. She is the daughter of Anton and Grace Burnette of Cleveland.