Kelsey Gibler from Trenton, Missouri, and Craig Schachtele from Lexington, Missouri, have been named this year’s North Central Missouri College (NCMC) Academic Excellence Award winners. Kelsey is set to graduate from NCMC in May with an Associate in Arts degree. Post-graduation, she plans to enroll at Northwest Missouri State University to pursue a degree in psychology with the aim of becoming a school counselor. Similarly, Craig will complete his Associate in Science degree in May and intends to continue his studies at the University of Central Missouri, focusing on medical lab science.
Both students have not only excelled academically but are also actively involved on campus. Kelsey participates as a student-athlete on the Dance Wave team, while Craig contributes as a tutor in math and science at the Tutoring Center.
Dr. Sterling Recker, an NCMC Political Science Instructor, praised Kelsey’s abilities in class, noting her skill in fostering deep discussions and her professional demeanor, which he believes will greatly benefit her future career. Similarly, Amy Guthrie, an NCMC English Instructor, commended Craig for his persistence and analytical skills, particularly in handling complex topics thoughtfully in his writings.
The choice of NCMC was strategic for both students. Kelsey appreciated the opportunity to graduate debt-free, benefiting from scholarships and the A+ program, while Craig valued the proximity to home and the small class sizes that fostered personal connections with instructors.
Dr. Susan Stull, Chair of the Academic Excellence Award Committee and Life Science Instructor, expressed pride in the recognition of NCMC’s outstanding students through this award.
The awards are given annually to two students who distinguish themselves through academic performance, service, and involvement, maintaining a GPA of at least 3.5. Both Kelsey and Craig will be honored at the annual honors brunch, where their names will be engraved on a plaque in Geyer Hall alongside previous winners.
