Dustin Aherin, a sophomore at Allen Community College, has been selected as Kansas’ Coca-Cola New Century Scholar.
Only one student from each state receives the designation, as well as Canada and seven other countries around the world that have Phi Theta Kappa honors societies.
Aherin, an agriculture major from Phillipsburg, plans to transfer to Kansas State University in the fall, where he will study animal science and agriculture economics.
Aherin credited his parents, Dennis and Joyce Aherin, for instilling in him at a young age the responsibility and dedication to maintain good grades while working on the family farm.
He has maintained a 4.0 grade point average through high school and now through college.
“I’ve been able to see and do a lot of cool things,” Aherin said.
In addition to his school and farm activities, Aherin was active in 4-H and FFA as a youth. He also showed cattle across the country.
“We’re all so extremely proud of Dustin,” said John Masterson, ACCC president. “We knew he’s a special student, and it’s great that everyone gets to recognize that now. This program really does point out the cream of the cream.”
The program is open to community college students around the world. To be eligible, a student must first be named to his state’s Academic All-State team.
Two students from each community college advance to the state level, at which point one state winner was chosen.
For being the Kansas designee, Aherin will receive a $2,000 scholarship and attend a banquet in Orlando, Fla., later this month. He also will be featured in the April 23 edition of USA TODAY.
