ABQ Times

Two students at UNM-Taos campus have been recognized for their academic achievements with national scholarships. Megan Beck and Colman Lee have been awarded prestigious scholarships that will help them pursue their educational and career goals.

Megan Beck has been named a 2024 New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar, supported by the Coca-Cola Foundation and Phi Theta Kappa. Beck's outstanding academic performance, leadership skills, and service efforts set her apart from over 2,200 applicants, earning her the highest score in New Mexico. As part of this scholarship, Beck will receive a $1,500 award and will be honored at the Association of Community College Trustees Leadership Congress in Seattle, Wash., in October.

In her pursuit of a degree in construction technology at UNM-Taos, Megan Beck is already putting her education to use. She is currently in Arizona, preparing to embark on a two-week construction job alongside fellow Taoseños, bridging the gap between natural-building techniques and professional skills. Beck is also actively involved in a project developing innovative and affordable domed housing for staff at the Vermejo Ranch and the Pine Ridge Lakota Sioux Reservation in South Dakota.

On the other hand, Colman Lee has been recognized as a 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar. His selection was based on his performance in the All-USA Academic Team competition, where he stood out among over 2,200 applicants. Sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and administered by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, this program acknowledges students for their academic excellence, leadership qualities, and community engagement.

Colman Lee is currently studying in the Natural Resources Management Program at UNM-Taos and plans to transfer to New Mexico Highlands University in the fall to pursue Environmental Geology. Expressing his aspirations, Lee mentioned, "I hope to get involved with watershed restoration work."

Both Beck and Lee, as recipients of these prestigious scholarships, will be celebrated in local and statewide ceremonies. They will also be acknowledged internationally during Phi Theta Kappa's annual convention, PTK Catalyst, in Orlando, Florida, scheduled for April 4-6.