Joey South Named a 2021 New Century Workforce Scholar

 Joey South, second-year UACCM Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology student, has been named a 2021 New Century Workforce Scholar and will receive a $1,250 scholarship. 

“Joey’s being named to this honor is a first for UACCM,” said Phi Theta Kappa advisor, Mat Herrman. “His being awarded this honor shows that all students can be acknowledged at any level – locally, regionally, or nationally – when they put forth the effort to demonstrate their best work. We are so proud of his accomplishment.”

This scholarship is the first of its kind to support students at associate degree-granting institutions on a national scale as they plan to enter the workforce upon the completion of a degree or certificate. The program is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

New Century Workforce Scholars are selected based on their academic accomplishments, leadership, activities, and how they extend their intellectual talents beyond the classroom. Over 2,000 students were nominated from more than 1,200 college campuses across the country. Only one New Century Workforce Scholar was selected from each state. 

South chose UACCM to pursue a career that he is passionate about. He has always wanted to train with automation and robotics, but he also chose to get involved outside of the classroom with Phi Theta Kappa in the fall of 2020.

“My only goal going into this program [Phi Theta Kappa] was to give it everything I have,” said South. “I wanted to teach my children what is possible with persistence and dedication. My hard work earning me such an astounding award has just been awesome. The financial contribution helps tremendously but furthermore the acknowledgement of my efforts has been life changing. I couldn’t be more honored to be recognized.”

After completing the Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology program, South hopes to go into the field of robotics to start an exciting and rewarding career. “Thank you to all of the UACCM faculty and staff for everything you have poured into me. My hard work is paying off but without each and every one that has helped me in my journey, none of this would be possible.”

The New Century Workforce Scholars will be recognized this fall. 

About The Coca-Cola Foundation:

The Coca-Cola Foundation is the global philanthropic arm of The Coca-Cola Company. Since its inception in 1984, the Foundation has awarded more than $1 billion in grants to support sustainable community initiatives around the world. For more information about The Coca-Cola Foundation, please visit coca-colagivingback.com.

About Phi Theta Kappa:

Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 3.5 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in 11 nations, with approximately 240,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org.