The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) recognized seven Morgan Community College (MCC) students for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to community service. MCC’s distinguished honorees include Talya Newton and Christopher Morales, Rising Star Award recipients; Risa Williams, Inclusive Excellence Champion; Isahias Zavala, Rollie Heath Award Nominee; and James Williams, Dane Francis, and Yoselin Martinez Hernandez, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-Colorado Academic Team members.
MCC Rising Star recipient Talya Newton was recognized for her academic excellence and leadership in the college’s nursing program. She earned the Student Nightingale Award during her Licensed Practical Nursing year (2024–2025) and has fostered a collaborative and supportive environment for her peers as part of the MCC Student Nurse Association (SNA). Newton is a Marine veteran, wife, and mother. She plans to pursue a BSN after graduation, with the long-term goal of becoming a flight nurse.
Christopher Morales, a student in MCC’s Electromechanical Technology program, was recognized as a Rising Star for his leadership and professionalism in the classroom and for his strong support of campus activities. Morales serves as MCC’s representative on the Colorado Community College System (CCCS) State Student Advisory Council. He is also an active member of MCC’s STEM Club and helps promote the college as a Student Ambassador. Morales aspires to become an electrical engineer and eventually start his own company.
Risa Williams was named MCC’s Inclusive Excellence Champion. She serves as the Student Government Association’s Secretary and Vice President and is also active in the STEM Club, Pride Club, and Game Club. Williams leads with empathy, supporting students who learn differently or need extra guidance. In her STEM work-study role, Williams goes above and beyond, helping students build confidence and succeed. Her quiet, steady leadership inspires those around her, and she is committed to fostering a campus environment where every student feels valued, capable, and included.
The Rollie Heath Award recognizes a successful college student who also earned concurrent enrollment credits during their high school years and who demonstrates leadership in their community. This award honors the work of former Colorado State Senator and State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education (SBCCOE) Board Chair, Rollie Heath. During his tenure on the Board, Heath focused his time on building concurrent enrollment pathways for learners to successfully enter the world of work, military careers, or further postsecondary education, including at one of the thirteen CCCS colleges.
Isahias Zavala was recognized as a MCC’s Rollie Heath Award nominee. Zavala completed 31 college credits as a concurrent enrollment student involved in MCC’s Health Science Technology (HST) program. After graduating from Fort Morgan High School, Zavala continued his education at MCC and is expected to graduate in May 2026 with an Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). After graduation, Isahias plans to remain in Fort Morgan with the goal of working as a PTA in an outpatient setting.
James Williams, Dane Francis and Yoselin Martinez Hernandez were selected to represent MCC on the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-Colorado Academic Team, a group of high-achieving students from the thirteen community colleges throughout the Colorado Community College System.
Dane Francis is pursuing an Associate of Science degree for a future career in Nursing. Francis grew up in a third-world country, facing the constant tension between ambition and limitations. As the first of eight siblings to pursue higher education, Dane carries not just his own dreams, but the hopes of his entire family. Francis continues to be motivated by his life experiences, coupled with a strong commitment to service. He plans to transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
James Williams is completing his Electrical/Mechanical certificate at Morgan Community College and will graduate in Spring 2026. Williams plans to begin his career in the energy industry, with a goal of working for NextEra Energy. His education at MCC has helped him develop strong technical skills through hands-on training and certifications, including industrial electrical and mechatronics. Known for his initiative, strong work ethic, and commitment to safety, Williams is prepared to contribute immediately to his field and community upon graduation.
Yoselin Martinez Hernandez is a concurrent enrollment student at MCC. Hernandez will graduate from Fort Morgan High School in Spring 2026 having also earned an Associate of General Studies degree and an Associate of Arts degree from MCC. In her high school, she is actively involved in Student Senate and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). Inspired to expand opportunities and representation in STEM, Hernandez plans to transfer to a four-year university to study mechanical engineering.
MCC’s award winners were honored at the CCCS Student Excellence Awards Ceremony on April 8, 2026, at the Social Capitol Event Center in Arvada, Colorado. Students were presented with award medallions, certificates, and memorabilia from CCCS and MCC. They will also be recognized on the CCCS and MCC websites and through social media.
To learn more about educational opportunities at MCC, visit www.morgancc.edu or call 1-800-622-0216. For more information about CCCS, visit www.cccs.edu/.
