Two students at UNM-Taos campus were recently awarded national scholarships that will allow each to pursue their dreams. 

Megan Beck was selected as a 2024 New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar, sponsored by the Coca-Cola Foundation, with additional support provided by Phi Theta Kappa. More than 2,200 applications were received and evaluated on academic achievement, leadership, service, and significant endeavors. Beck received the highest score in New Mexico.

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New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar recipient Megan Beck gets instruction from UNM-Taos Construction Technology Program Coordinator Mark Goldman. Photo credit: Enrico Trujillo

As a New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar, she will receive a $1,500 scholarship and be recognized during the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Leadership Congress in Seattle, Wash., in October.

This scholarship is the first to support students at associate degree-granting institutions nationally who plan to enter the workforce after completing a degree or certificate.

Beck studied construction technology and is in Arizona about to start a two-week construction job with other Taoseños. Using her UNM-Taos education, she is connecting natural-builders with professional skills.

In addition, Beck is involved with a group creating innovative, affordable domed housing for staff at the Vermejo Ranch (Ted Turner Ranch) and at the Pine Ridge Lakota Sioux Reservation in South Dakota.

In addition, Colman Lee was been selected as a 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar and will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

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Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar award-winner Colman Lee. (Courtesy photo)

His selection as a Coca-Cola Bronze Scholar was based on his scores in the All-USA Academic Team competition, with than 2,200 applications were received this year.

This program is also sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and is administered by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Students are nominated for the academic team by their college administrators. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service.

Lee is a student in the Natural Resources Management Program and will transfer to New Mexico Highlands University this fall to study Environmental Geology.

“I hope to get involved with watershed restoration work,” he said.

Coca-Cola Academic Team members will be recognized in both local and statewide ceremonies. They will also be recognized internationally during Phi Theta Kappa’s annual convention, PTK Catalyst, in Orlando, Fla., April 4-6.