DREAM BIG
NWTC student receives national honors from
Achieving the Dream
In January , NWTC Laboratory Science student Cyan Hite became one of eight students recognized nationwide as a 2022 DREAM Scholar by Achieving the Dream ( ATD ). The DREAM Scholars program is an experiential learning opportunity for student leaders looking to make a difference on their campus and in their community .
“ NWTC is proud of Cyan and for this recognition for the hard work that has led them here ,” said Dr . Jeff Rafn , NWTC president . “ Cyan ’ s resilience , positive outlook , and commitment continue to inspire our college every day . It is students like this who remind us as educators of why we are here and why we continue to help build pathways to achieve their success .”
After being nominated by their institutions , the Scholars are chosen through a competitive application process , sharing their journey , educational goals , and more . Like so many , Hite ’ s journey included unexpected twists along the way . Hite became a single parent of three children by the age of 24 , encountering obstacles of divorce , housing insecurity , and family loss . Later joining the LGBTQ + community , Hite withstood a lack of acceptance regarding gender identity and sexual orientation but persisted through , never losing sight of who they were along the way .
“ I am incredibly honored for this recognition and opportunity to represent NWTC ,” said Hite . “ This award holds a personal significance for me as I look back at how I arrived here today .”
Scholars participate in a program designed to enhance their professional and personal skills through workshops , networking , and financial awards . In addition , each Scholar presented at the DREAM 2022 Conference in February , where thousands of attendees heard their insights into the diverse experiences , challenges , and hopes of community college students across the country . During the conference , Hite also received the Harvey Lincoln Scholarship from ATD , which recognizes their unwavering dedication to education despite personal hardships .
“ I hope that anyone who hears my story recognizes the magnitude of the diversity of those around them ,” said Hite . “ It ’ s important that we instill these core values within ourselves and future generations , so we are creating a more equitable world .”
CYAN ’ S RESILIENCE , POSITIVE OUTLOOK , AND COMMITMENT CONTINUE TO INSPIRE OUR COLLEGE EVERY DAY .
- Dr . Jeff Rafn , NWTC President
8 FRIENDS OF NWTC SUMMER 2022