1. April 8, 2014
ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
LITTLETON, CO
Presented by
State Student Advisory Council (SSAC)
and
Colorado Community College System
RISING STAR
Re cog n ition C e remony
& Hon or ar y L u nc heon

2. WE LCOME
Shelton Howard
Chair, State Student Advisory Council (SSAC)
LUNCH
OPE NING RE MARKS
Dr. Nancy J. McCallin
President, Colorado Community College System
P RESE NTATION OF RISING STAR AWARDS
Colorado Community College Presidents
ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Dr. Diana Doyle, President
COLORADO NORTHWESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Mr. Russell George, President
COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF AURORA
Dr. Betsy Oudenhoven
COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF DENVER
Dr. Everette Freeman
FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Mr. Andy Dorsey, President
LAMAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Mr. John Marrin, President
MORGAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Dr. Kerry Hart, President
NORTHEASTERN JUNIOR COLLEGE
Mr. Jay Lee, President
OTERO JUNIOR COLLEGE
Mr. Jim Rizzuto, President
SCHEDULE OF EV ENTS

3. PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Dr. Lance Bolton, President
PUEBLO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Ms. Patty Erjavec, President
RED ROCKS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Dr. Michele Haney, President
TRINIDAD STATE JUNIOR COLLEGE
Dr. Carmen Simone
PRE SE NTATION OF
PRE SIDE NT OF THE Y E AR AWARD
Dr. Nancy J. McCallin
President, Colorado Community College System
PRE SE NTATION OF
ADV OCATE OF THE Y E AR AWARD
Dr. Jerry Migler
Vice President, Academic Affairs/Provost
Colorado Community College System
T HANK Y OU AND CLOSING REMARKS
Taryn Flack
Vice Chair, State Student Advisory Council (SSAC)
All award winners and award presenters, please stay for
photographs immediately following the end of the program.
Slide show created by Mark Squire, Red Rocks Community College
A special thank you to the Rising Star Luncheon Planning Committee

4. ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
HEIDI SPURGEON is working on her Associate of Arts Degree at
Arapahoe Community College. In addition to being an excellent student,
she is the current Secretary of Associated Student Government and the Vice
President of Communication for Phi Theta Kappa (PTK). She is
also one of the two ACC PTK members named to the 2014
PTK All-Colorado Academic Team. Heidi volunteers with a
mentorship program for young girls in Denver and is active
in her church. When not in the classroom or volunteering
her time, Heidi is working to become fluent in Spanish
and loves to play the harp, piano and guitar. Heidi plans to
transfer to the University of Missouri–St. Louis.
EUGENE SANDERS, who is working on his Associate of
Arts degree at Arapahoe Community College, is known
for his upbeat and positive attitude. He is currently the
Student Government Treasurer, founder and President of
the Knitting Club, Equality Club President, and is involved
in the President’s Student Advisory Council. His peers and
instructors say he has a sparkling wit and possesses insatiable
curiosity about everything. As a work study employee, he is a
problem solver and works with students to sort out their issues by
offering practical solutions. He is a dedicated scholar, student leader, and
citizen. He exhibits wisdom, kindness and generosity in the community,
especially when working with The United Way of America. He plans to
transfer to Metropolitan State University of Denver and pursue a degree in
some aspect of Human Services.
COLORADO NORTHWESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
JESSE ANDERSON is working on his Associate of Applied Science in
Equine Training at Colorado Northwestern Community College Rangely
Campus. He is actively involved on campus as the Vice President of
Student Government, a Resident Assistant, and a member of the
Rodeo Team, Phi Theta Kappa and the Equine Club. Jesse
has received awards for his leadership as a Resident Assistant
and was selected as an All American Academic Athlete for
Rodeo. In his spare time, Jesse enjoys hunting, fishing
and the outdoors. After completing his degree at CNCC,
Jesse would like to transfer to a four-year university and has
aspirations of one day owning an equine business.

5. DIANA RANSBERGER is an enthusiastic learner and
compassionate woman working on her Associate of Science
degree at Colorado Northwestern Community College’s
Craig Campus. There, she is the Associated Student
Government President and holds an elected position as part
of Phi Theta Kappa. She is also a work study employee for
both the biology and chemistry departments and participates
in CNCC’s “Taste of Education”, in which chemistry
demonstrations are done on campus and at local area high schools.
When not in the classroom or doing lab work, Diana values spending time
with her three kids and supportive husband. She is known for her great
cooking skills, including authentic Mexican delights and chocolate truffles.
Eventually, Diana would like to transfer to a four-year college, and she
would like to get a doctorate in Physical Therapy.
COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF AURORA
LAYNI E VILLAGOMEZ is working on her Associate of
Science in Psychology at Community College of Aurora.
She is also the President of CCA’s chapter of the League
for United Latin American Citizens, the Vice President of
Student Government, the Vice President of the Black Student
Alliance, and part of the TRiO program. Additionally, she is
the lead event programmer for CCA’s Student Life. Off campus,
Laynie enjoys volunteering at her local Goodwill store and she sponsors
a child in Africa. She is known for her optimism, infectious positivity, and
leadership. Laynie plans to transfer to the University of Colorado at Denver.
STEVI MORELAND is a spirited and intelligent student working
on her Associate of Arts degree at Community College of
Aurora. She is a consultant for the Society for the Study of
Modern Visual Culture, the Secretary for the Film Fans
Club and served as the State Student Advisory Council
Representative on the State Board for Community Colleges
and Occupational Education. Stevi is also a work study
employee serving CCA as a librarian and tutor. Classmates
and faculty members have described Stevi as inspirational and
resilient. Stevi plans to continue her education at University of
Colorado at Denver.

6. COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF DENVER
ALI CIA LEIGH is an outstanding student working on her
Associate of Applied Science degree in Dental Hygiene at
the Community College of Denver. In addition to serving
as her class representative and her multiple community
service accomplishments, Alicia has been actively involved
with the state legislature while CCD pursued the approval
of a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree. She has been
instrumental in the college’s success because she is confident,
articulate, and poised under pressure when giving testimony. Alicia
is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Psi Beta and the President of
the Student Chapter of American Dental Hygienists’ Association at CCD.
When not on campus, she is active in the community as a volunteer for
numerous events and organizations. Alicia plans to continue her education
and obtain a bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene.
DREW TURLEY is working on his Associate of Science degree
at the Community College of Denver. He is known as a
perfectionist with a great work ethic. On campus, Drew
is a CCD Student Ambassador Orientation Leader, a
Supplemental Student Instructor for math and science,
Treasurer of the Student Ambassador Student Organization,
a member of Phi Theta Kappa, and the STEM Club. Off
campus, Drew is also known for his volunteerism, ranging from
sustainable living activities to dance and performing. In his “free”
time, Drew models, dances, and acts professionally. Drew plans to complete
his Associate of Science degree at CCD and then to transfer to a four-year
college where he plans to study architecture or urban planning. CCD is
thankful to have Drew as part of its campus community.
FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
BOULDER CAMPUS
DEI SY DELUNA is working on an Associate of Arts degree
with a Designation in Business-Accounting and Marketing
at Front Range Community College’s Boulder Campus.
On campus, she is a Student Government Association
Legislative Representative, National Society of Leadership
and Success (NSLS) member, Latino Club President,
Phi Theta Kappa member and a participant in the Latino
Excellence, Achievement, and Development Series (LEADS).

7. She won the Outstanding New Student award and FRCC Longmont
Legacy Foundation Scholarship in 2013. Deisy works in the Outreach and
Enrollment department and volunteers in the Longmont community. In
her free time, she likes to read and spend time with her family and friends.
Deisy is set to graduate this fall and plans transfer to the University of
Colorado at Boulder.
FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
LARIMER CAMPUS
MIKENNA RASE is an active and highly motivated student at
Front Range Community College’s Larimer Campus, where
she is working on her Associate of Arts, Business Designation
degree. While at the Larimer campus, Mikenna has been
involved in the Pathways Leadership Program and Phi
Theta Kappa. She also received the Outstanding New
Student Award in 2013. Off campus, she volunteers at
the Restoration Community Church; was a summer camp
volunteer; and has done a number of mission trips to Indian
Reservations and the Czech Republic, where she taught English.
After an anticipated graduation this summer, Mikenna will attend the
highly selective Savannah College of Art and Design.
FRONT RANGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
WESTMINSTER CAMPUS
KATHY BELLIS is working on her Associate of Arts degree at Front Range
Community College’s Westminster Campus. On campus, Kathy is Editor
of the Front Page Newspaper, a New Student Orientation Leader, and
Student Leader for the Altitude Leadership Retreat planning committee,
care-team member for the construction project, and a National Society of
Leadership and Success member. Kathy also assists at the Welcome
Center on campus and volunteers her time at local dog shelters.
One faculty member commented, “Kathy is one of the most
reliable, friendly, and outstanding students I have come in
contact with during my time at FRCC.” Kathy plans to
continue her education, wants to grow her career as a writer
and journalist, and pursue a bachelor’s degree. However, she
will first welcome a baby into the world this May.

8. LAMAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE
MIKAILA MARTINEZ is a full-time student-athlete at Lamar
Community College, working on her Associate of Arts degree.
She strives to balance her time in the classroom with her role
as a middle hitter on the LCC Women’s Volleyball Team, as
well as with other school and community activities. She is the
Vice President of the Student Government Association and is
a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She has also been recruited by
several Division I schools to play volleyball. When not in the
classroom or on the volleyball court, Mikaila enjoys spending time
with her family, friends and teammates. While Mikaila has not yet selected
which school she will be attending in the fall of 2014, she is looking forward
to what the future holds.
BRENNA CASH is a great asset to Lamar Community College
and the local community. She is a full-time student, a setter
and defensive specialist on the LCC Volleyball Team, a
Senator for the Student Government Association, and
a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She was also selected a
Presidential Scholar for 2013-14. In her free time, Brenna
volunteers her time at the Lamar Animal Sanctuary and
Lamar Toys for Tots Distribution Center. She also keeps busy
as a work study employee at the LCC Bookstore. Brenna intends
to attend Colorado State University-Pueblo to pursue a bachelor’s degree,
majoring in Psychology.
MORGAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ANNISHIA ESKEW has a strong work ethic, which has
proven valuable as she progresses through nursing school at
Morgan Community College. She has been a true leader as
part of the Student Nurse Association, holding roles as Vice
President, President and Advisory Board member. Last year,
Annishia attended the Student Nurse Association National
Conference as a delegate. Annishia has been instrumental in
re-building the Student Nurse Association on MCC’s campus.
Annishia is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa and volunteers with
“Save the Children” on campus. When not on campus, she loves spending
time with her family, camping and teaching Bible class at the Church of
Christ. Annishia plans to work towards her bachelor’s degree in Nursing
and subsequently her master’s degree in Nursing.

9. PAIGE BRUNTZ is working on her Associate of Science degree
at Morgan Community College. She is the President of
MCC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, Secretary of the Student
Government Association and Vice President of the Science
Club. Paige is also active on campus as a work study
employee for Student Support and volunteers for Operation:
Saving Our Communities, Protect Our Children. Paige is an
exceptional role model to the student body and MCC is grateful
to have her as part of their campus. In her free time, Paige enjoys
painting, drawing and sculpting. Paige plans to continue her education at
the University of Northern Colorado.
NORTHEASTERN JUNIOR COLLEGE
BROOKE MILLER is a happy, upbeat young woman and great
contributor to the Northeastern Junior College campus and
community. She is an NJC Student Senator, NJC Student
Ambassador, and the Aggies Club Secretary. Off campus,
Brooke has been active volunteering her time for the High-
Plains Rotary Club, the 9News Health Fair, the Northern
Colorado Honor Flight as a Guardian, and the Colorado/
Wyoming/Nebraska Stock Horse Association. She is proud of
her service as a Colorado State Future Farmers of America officer.
Brooke was raised on 80 acres of dry grassland and loves to help
people and talk about agriculture. After her time at NJC, Brooke plans to
transfer to Colorado State University to complete her degree in Agriculture
Education.
DENZEL STEWART is thriving as he works on his Associate of Science
degree at Northeastern Junior College. He is also a Resident Assistant in
Williams Hall, a Student Government Representative, a Community
Assistant at Poole Hall, an Intramural sports Coach and Captain and part
of the Peer Helper Club. He recently won a Resident Life award for
Best Retention from fall to spring for his hard work as a Resident
Assistant. He is proud to be a first generation college student.
Denzel loves to play basketball and all other sports, despite
the fact that he has a titanium spine. After completing
his associate’s degree at NJC, Denzel plans to continue
his education at either Colorado State University or the
Colorado School of Mines.

10. OTERO JUNIOR COLLEGE
NATALYA SHAROVATOVA is from Uzbekistan and attending Otero
Junior College as part of the Global Undergraduate Exchange
Program (Global UGRAD). At OJC, Natalya is proud to be part
of the President’s Leadership Program and the International
Relations Organization. As part of these programs, she has
volunteered at numerous fundraising and charity events
and has also been able to share her culture, language and
customs with others on campus and in the community.
After returning home, Natalya plans to come back to the
United States to work on her bachelor’s degree at a four-year
college. She is hoping to attend Colorado State University–Pueblo
or the University of Denver.
HALEY MARTINEZ is a student-athelete working on her Associate of Arts
degree at Otero Junior College (OJC). When Haley isn’t in the classroom or
on the basketball court as part of OJC’s Women’s Basketball Team, she
is also active in the Wunsch Hall Club and is an officer elect for
OJC’s 2014-15 Associated Student Government. She is proud
to have been selected as “Athlete of the Week” earlier this
year for her hard work and contributions to the basketball
team. She has also volunteered to help with a local youth
basketball team that consists of first through third graders.
Haley plans to transfer to a four-year college after she finishes
at Otero, but she has not yet decided which school she would
like to attend.
PIKES PEAK COMMUNITY COLLEGE
CARLENE GRAY is working on her associate degree in Psychology and
Communication at Pikes Peak Community College. Carlene is the Phi
Theta Kappa President at PPCC and a member of the Multicultural
Student Union. Off campus, Carlene is also active in the
classroom as a volunteer at Soaring Eagles Elementary School,
at the El Pomar and PPCC College Readiness and Success
Program and is a Court Appointed Special Advocate. When
not volunteering or working on her academics, Carlene is a
poet and writer and is passionate about sports. Carlene hopes
to attend the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and
has aspirations of becoming an entrepreneur after graduation.

11. WILLIE LI NSON is working on his Associate of Arts degree
in History at Pikes Peak Community College. He is a Senator
in Student Government, member of Phi Theta Kappa and
member of the Sustainability Club. Willie is also in the
Army Reserve, where he is a Combat Medic. Off campus,
Willie volunteers for the American Red Cross at Evans
Army Community Hospital and is a nationally registered
Emergency Medical Technician. According to his nominator,
“Willie is always willing to help and he reaches out to others to engage
them.” Willie aspires to continue his education at the University of Denver
to study International Relations.
PUEBLO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
HEATHER STEVENS is a student at Pueblo Community College
working on her Associate Degree in Business Management.
She is a Student Ambassador, belongs to the National Honor
Society, and Colorado Springs Muzzle Loader Association.
Heather’s nominator stated “Heather is the epitome of
the ‘PCC Promise!’ She has impressive leadership skills,
communicates in a clear, concise manner that is relatable,
relevant and thorough plus she is always upbeat and positive.”
When Heather is not on campus, her hobbies include stock and
drag car racing, hunting, travelling to car shows, church activities,
and spending time with family. Heather plans to continue in the summer
through the Adam’s State University distance learning program to earn her
bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Health
Care Administration.
KRISTINA PETERSEN is working on her Associate Degree in Health
Information Technology at Pueblo Community College. She is the Vice
President of PCC’s Associated Student Government, a leader and
organizer for PCC’s Panther Student Pantry, a Student Activity
Board member, a member of the New Student Orientation
Student Leadership Team, and a Phi Theta Kappa member.
She is known around campus as an outstanding student,
leader, and person, plus she is a strong advocate for students
who are interested in college, but who are lacking confidence.
Kristina loves reading, roller skating and spending time with
her husband, five children and grandchild. After graduating
from PCC, Kristina looks forward to becoming a professional in
the health field.

12. RED ROCKS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
KRYSTAL TUBBS is a well-rounded student who is working on
her Associate of Arts degree in Computer Science at Red Rocks
Community College. Not only is she a “technology wiz kid,”
but she is also artistic and creative. In addition to her taxing
studies, she works as a social media specialist in RRCC’s
marketing department, leads student clubs, and volunteers.
Krystal is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, events chair of the
National Society of Leadership and Success, and a member
of RRCC’s video game club. She has conducted fundraisers for
Colorado Flood Relief, Hurricane Sandy Relief, the Red Cross, and
Children’s Hospital. In addition, she volunteers at Denver Comic Con as the
Assistant to the Director of Communications. An amateur photographer,
blogger, Whovian and Trekkie, Krystal likes to read science fiction and
fantasy, and also enjoys fishing with her family. Upon graduation this
spring, Krystal plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree at either CU or CSU.
She will be the first of her siblings and parents to earn a college degree.
ANTHONY “TONY” WILSON is a perfect example of leadership at
Red Rocks Community College (RRCC). He is president of the National
Society of Leadership and Success, Vice President of RRCC
Student Government, and a student representative on the
Fitness Center and Recreation Center Steering Coordinator
search committees. In addition, he was an officer with and
founding member of RRCC’s Political Science Club and
works in RRCC’s Student Life Department. When not
at Red Rocks, Tony volunteers as a referee for high school
basketball. Although Tony is known for his dry sense of
humor, he has a huge heart. He plans to attend the University
of Colorado to pursue a bachelor’s degree after graduation.

13. TRINIDAD STATE JUNIOR COLLEGE
MARCOS TRUJILLO is an exceptional student at Trinidad State Junior
College’s Valley Campus. He has outstanding interpersonal skills
among his peers, which has led to his success as President of
the Student Government Association at TSJC. He is also an
active member of both the Phi Beta Lambda and Phi Theta
Kappa Honor Societies. He is able to successfully meet
students where they are at and advocate for their needs on
both the collective and individual level. Marcos has grown
tremendously into an outstanding student leader; one who
listens first, is open to feedback, makes changes where needed,
and keeps the needs of his team above his personal agenda. Marcos
plans to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a Bachelor of Science in
Computer Engineering.
TIFFANY DAVIES is truly an outstanding student at Trinidad State Junior
College’s Valley Campus, working on her Associate of Nursing degree.
Tiffany carries a positive outlook, sense of humor, and a smile which
is well known among her peers, faculty, and staff. This positive
attitude, along with her hard work and dedication, aids in
her success in the many roles she holds at TSJC: Nursing
program student; Student Government Association Senator
at Large; and Future Nurses of America President. She is
consistently successful even when challenges arise. Tiffany is
highly respected by all who have the privilege to work with
her. After Tiffany graduates this spring, she is looking to transfer
to Grand Canyon University.

14. ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR
J ENNI FER CARTE R
Trinidad State Junior College, Valley Campus
Jennifer, who is known as Jeni by the college community, serves as the
Student Life Coordinator at Trinidad State Junior College (TSJC). She
was nominated by Marcos Trujillo and Jason Delman of TSJC’s Associated
Student Government for this award. In addition to her role as Student
Life Coordinator, Jeni also serves as Student Government Advisor, is on
the Higher Learning Commission Committee, and is
a Behavior Intervention Team member and Chair
and creator of “Student Achievement Awards”
at the college.
“Jeni has exuded dedication not only to the
advocacy of her students, but also to her
extraordinary event planning skills. During
her time at Trinidad State Junior College, Ms.
Carter has created a student community that
reflects inclusiveness and spreads the awareness
of the importance of recognizing a multicultural
campus. Through her daily support, whether it is
academic or social, it has become apparent that she is a true educator and
someone that we are very proud to have as a mentor.”
Jeni earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and
Management and her Master’s degree in Counseling at Adams State
University. When she is not on campus, Jeni can be found seeking out the
latest releases in music, experimenting in the kitchen, playing outside with
her dog, and spending time with her family.

15. PRESIDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD
DR. DI A NA M. DOY LE
Arapahoe Community College
Dr. Diana Doyle was nominated to be President of
the Year by the Arapahoe Community College
Student Government for her dedication
and leadership toward advancing student
interests. Dr. Doyle has a strong presence
throughout the college and attends student
activities regularly. In 2011, Dr. Doyle
created the President’s Student Advisory
Council to meet monthly with students to
learn of their concerns and get their feedback
on projects and initiatives. Students recognize that
Dr. Doyle is a resource to them and that she has an
open door policy to share ideas and make Arapahoe Community College
the best it can be. Each semester, Dr. Doyle is the first to volunteer to
work the Student Affairs greeter table to welcome and direct students.
She also frequents student activities on all three campuses at events like
Pizza with the President, Student Government meetings, Phi Theta Kappa
recognition, and campus BBQs. Dr. Doyle is also an avid volunteer in the
local community and an active member of Rotary International.
Dr. Doyle has more than 36 years of professional experience in higher
education administration. Dr. Doyle holds bachelor and master degrees
from Illinois State University and earned her Ph.D. in Public Administration
from the University of Colorado at Denver.

16. S TAT E S T U D E N T A D V I S O R Y C O U N C I L
The purpose of the State Student Advisory Council (SSAC) is to serve as an
advisory body to the Colorado State Board for Community Colleges and
Occupational Education (SBCCOE). The SSAC’s elected Vice-Chair has a
non-voting seat on the SBCCOE and acts as a liaison between the student
bodies of member colleges and the state board. Membership is open to
the 13 Colorado Community Colleges, and members of the SSAC are
elected by a vote of their respective student bodies and serve for a term
of one year. SSAC meets on a regular basis and serves as an advocacy
group for all state community college students.
S TAT E B O A R D F O R C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E S
& O C C U PAT I O N A L E D U C AT I O N
Dr. John Trefny, Chair
Mr. Rich Martinez, Vice Chair
Ms. Maury Dobbie
Mr. Jim Johnson
Ms. Bernadette Marquez
Dr. Russell Meyer
Ms. Theresa Peña
Mr. Ken Weil
Ms. Jean White
Ms. Taryn Flack , SSAC Representative
Mr. Robert Henderson, SFAC Representative