Tessa Folks named a 2024 New Century Transfer Scholar

(Carlsbad, New Mexico) Tessa Folks, a student at Southeast New Mexico College, has been named New Mexico’s 2024 New Century Transfer Scholar and will receive a $2,250 scholarship. Tessa is the first Southeast New Mexico College student to receive the scholarship and will be representing the state at the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Convention.

“We congratulate Tessa for receiving this prestigious scholarship, and we are honored to partner with the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, The Coca-Cola Foundation, and the AACC to recognize these outstanding achievements,” said Phi Theta Kappa’s President and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner. “Scholarship programs like this are integral for creating opportunities for two-year college students to succeed and for putting college completion within reach.”

Southeast New Mexico College President, Kevin Beardmore, Ed.D. stated “ Tessa has been a shining star at SENMC. She is involved in a multitude of activities and leadership opportunities, promoting SENMC and the value of a college education to the community and the state. We wish her all the best as she transfers to a university that will be very fortunate to have her.”

To become a New Century Transfer Scholar is a competitive process. According to Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), New Century Transfer Scholars are selected based on their academic accomplishments, leadership, activities, and how they extend their intellectual talents beyond the classroom. Over 2,200 students from more than 1,300 college campuses nationwide were nominated. Only one New Century Transfer Scholar is selected from each state. The program is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, Phi Theta Kappa, and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

Tessa said "I am immensely grateful for receiving this prestigious recognition. Without the unwavering support and love from my community, mentors, friends, and family (especially my mom), I wouldn't have been chosen for this award. It is their encouragement that empowers me to achieve what I can. I am incredibly thankful for this fantastic opportunity and filled with excitement!" 

“As the president of the Alpha Rho Xi Chapter of PTK here at SENMC, Tessa stands as an exemplary embodiment of all four of the PTK hallmarks: scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship. We are thrilled and immensely proud that she has been acknowledged for her outstanding scholarship. Her leadership and dedication to service resonate throughout the entire SENMC community.” said Dr. Raven Anderson, SENMC PTK Advisor.

About The Coca-Cola Foundation The Coca-Cola Foundation is the global philanthropic arm of The Coca-Cola Company. Since its inception in 1984, the Foundation has awarded more than $1 billion in grants to support sustainable community initiatives around the world. For more information about The Coca-Cola Foundation, please visit coca-colagivingback.com.

About The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation celebrates and empowers visionary leaders who are refreshing the world. Supporting more than 1,400 exceptional college students each year, it awards $3.55 million in scholarships annually through three nationally recognized programs. Learn more at coca-colascholarsfoundation.org.

About Phi Theta Kappa Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 3.8 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 240,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org.