Student Awards
2025 Award Winners
Tonya Dory
PTK All-CO Academic Team
Tonya Dory is a first-generation MCC student pursuing an associate’s degree in Nursing with plans to earn her master’s in the field. After setting this goal thirty-five years ago, she is determined to achieve it, motivated by her desire to serve others and set an example for her five adult children.
A deeply compassionate and driven individual, Tonya’s passion for nursing was reignited after experiencing the loss of her fifth child. She aims to become a labor and delivery nurse, then a nurse coach and educator, working to bridge language barriers in healthcare through ESL medical education. With a 4.0 GPA, perseverance, and strong support system, she is committed to succeeding in her nursing career.
Angela Gomez
PTK All-CO Academic Team
& Rising Star
Angela Gomez is an engaged and passionate student leader, serving as the Student Government Association’s State Student Advisory Council Representative and STEM Club Secretary at MCC. She is pursuing a degree in Political Science and plans to transfer to a four-year university. Angela is deeply committed to K-12 outreach and volunteering at STEM activities.
Angela is known for her strong sense of justice, always advocating for fellow students to ensure everyone’s voice is heard. She is widely respected as a great listener and a source of wise advice, making her a trusted peer.
Her dedication extends beyond academics, and she actively participates in campus events. Her commitment, resilience, and leadership make her a valued member of the MCC community.
Katie Little
PTK All-CO Academic Team
Katie Little has a passion for entrepreneurship and is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree with an emphasis in business management, marketing, and administration. Katie is a non-traditional student and single mother; she draws strength from overcoming challenges and is determined to build a better future for her son.
Her long-term goal in returning to earn her business degree is to strengthen her skills, expand her face painting business, and launch new ventures, including an eco-friendly product line. As a Phi Theta Kappa member, she values the camaraderie and learning opportunities the honor society offers. She is committed to making a lasting impact.
Maria Gomez
Rising Star
Maria Gomez is the MCC Student Government Association President, STEM Club Vice President, and a PTK member. She is deeply involved in STEM research, K-12 STEM outreach, and astronomy nights. A high-achieving student who is pursuing an Associate of Science in Biology, Maria has earned Summa Cum Laude honors, multiple scholarships, and leadership awards.
She is currently researching methane in the atmosphere and participated in a STEM trip to Yellowstone National Park. Maria balances tutoring, organizing study groups, and leading student initiatives while excelling academically. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado – Denver, followed by a master’s degree in a STEM field. In her free time, she enjoys skateboarding, painting, and spending time with her niece.
Jorge Hernandez
Inclusive Excellence Champion
Jorge “Jay” Hernandez is a dedicated student leader at MCC, actively involved in Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), Student Government Association (SGA), and the Game Club. He has a strong passion for community engagement and is committed to bettering Fort Morgan, frequently organizing events like Community Art Walks to bring people together.
Jay’s leadership extends beyond event planning—he strives to make MCC a more inclusive and welcoming space. He takes the time to engage with students in hallways and common areas, ensuring they feel seen and heard. His initiative to attend various club meetings demonstrates his dedication to understanding and representing his peers within student government.
Beyond his academic and leadership roles, Jay is passionate about photography and plans to transfer to MSU.