(PHOENIX, Ariz., Feb. 13, 2004) – Phoenix College students, Gileaña Raheem and Christine Bryant, have been selected to the 2004 All-Arizona Academic Team. The competition, sponsored by Arizona Phi Theta Kappa, recognizes outstanding community college students for their commitment to education and community service.

Both Raheem and Bryant are among an elite group of 65 students from 19 Arizona Community Colleges to receive this honor.

Raheem was chosen to the first team and received a $1,000 scholarship. She is now eligible for the All-USA Academic competition – with finalists to be featured in an upcoming issue of USA Today. Approximately 1,500 community colleges nationwide nominate students for the national competition.

She is actively involved in the campus community. For Fall 2003 she served as Third Committee Team leader for the Phoenix College Model United Nations Team. The team was recently recognized as the Best Overall Delegation at a national conference in Chicago. She also works for the college Interpreter Preparation Program. In that role, she helps students stay on track with their sign language educational goals and maintains the program web site. Additionally, Raheem holds a 4.0 G.P.A.

"I am so grateful for all the support I received from so many people," said Raheem. "As the recipient of this award, I am more determined to help others succeed. Something is not truly wonderful until you can pass along your support or help others in return.

Bryant, a third-team honoree, received a $500 scholarship. In addition to their scholarship awards, both students received an Arizona Board of Regents full-tuition waiver to any of the three Arizona public universities.

Bryant holds a 3.73 G.P.A. and aspires for a career in Animal Communication and Behavior. She continuously contributes to Phoenix College and her local community. Some of her activities include: American Girl Library Program co-coordinator, Phi Theta Kappa president, Arizona Irish Foundation volunteer, Department of Veterans Affairs volunteer, All Saints Catholic Newman’s Center volunteer and American Red Cross First Aid and CPR Beginning instructor.

"I can honestly say that I planned my life around this potential scholarship," said Bryant. "I had no idea of how I would pay for the rest of my schooling at a four-year institution. So needless to say, when I found out about receiving this award, I was so excited. I can now attend NAU in Flagstaff."

Both recipients are members of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) at Phoenix College, a national scholastic honorary society for students attending two-year community colleges. Selection was based on academic achievement, leadership accomplishments and service to community.

On Thursday, Feb. 12 Raheem and Bryant were honored at a luncheon at Mesa Community College attended by college presidents, governing board members, state legislators and other dignitaries.

###