Hikaru Mikami from Japan and Nathan Stark from Trenton, MO, have been chosen as this year's NCMC Academic Excellence Award winners. Hikaru and Nathan will graduate from NCMC in May. Hikaru, with an Associate in Arts degree, and Nathan, with an Associate in Arts in Teaching and an Associate in Science.

Along with excelling academically, both Hikaru and Nathan are involved on campus. Hikaru is a student-athlete on the Pirates baseball team, a Resident Assistant (RA), and a member of PTK Honor Society. Nathan is involved in SMSTA and is a tutor at the Tutoring Center.

Hikaru chose NCMC to play baseball and enjoys the small community and everyone's helpfulness. Hikaru said, "Everyone is willing to help, and they are very kind." Hikaru's favorite class has been English with Mrs. Amy Guthrie. Hikaru said, "It was hard, but I enjoy writing, and I liked the class."

Nathan said, "I chose NCMC because it is a good transition into college. I liked the campus when I toured, and being close to home made it a really good option. I like that it is affordable, and I can use my A+." Nathan's favorite class is Teaching Professions, taught by Instructor Cassie Cordray. Nathan said, "I enjoy the group discussion, and the topics are interesting."

Amy Guthrie, NCMC English Faculty and Education and Communications Division Chair, said about Hikaru, "It has been my pleasure to have Hikaru in several classes over the past year. Hikaru is an international student from Japan who exemplifies academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. He is a well-rounded student in the class, a high-achieving athlete on the baseball field, and an engaged NCMC community member."

Dr. Sterling Recker, NCMC Political Science Instructor, said about Nathan, "I was always impressed with Nathan's attentiveness and contributions to our class discussions. He seemed to have some background knowledge in National Government, and his comments demonstrated strong critical thinking skills. It was always interesting to hear his thoughts during discussions and through the various assignments throughout the semester."

Dr. Susan Stull, Chair of the Academic Excellence Award Committee and Life Science Instructor, said, "We have many academically excellent students at NCMC. I am grateful this award highlights a job well done and our student accolades."

The Academic Excellence Award Winners are chosen annually by a faculty committee that selects two students who excel in academics, service, and involvement.  The honoree must maintain a GPA of at least 3.5, be recognized and recommended by an NCMC faculty member, and participate in public service.

Hikaru and Nathan will be recognized at the annual honors brunch and have their names engraved on a plaque in Geyer Hall, alongside past recipients of academic excellence awards.