EAC students honored at All-Arizona Academic Team luncheon

Contributed Photo/Courtesy EAC: Eastern Arizona College students Andrew Castillo and Tucker Nielsen were recognized among Arizona’s top scholars at the All-Arizona Academic Team Luncheon, held last week in Mesa. Pictured here from left are: Tonka Curtis, EAC languages professor and Phi Theta Kappa club advisor; honorees, Tucker Nielsen and Andrew Castillo; EAC President Todd Haynie; EAC Director of Enrollment Management; and club co-advisor and EAC academic advisor, Craig Smith. The annual event celebrates the state’s highest-achieving community college students for their academic excellence, leadership, and community service.

By Lori Dugan/EAC

THATCHER, Ariz. – Eastern Arizona College students Andrew Castillo and Tucker Nielsen were recognized among Arizona’s top scholars at the All-Arizona Academic Team Luncheon, held last week in Mesa, Arizona. The annual event celebrates the state’s highest-achieving community college students for their academic excellence, leadership, and community service.

EAC’s President Todd Haynie had the honor of welcoming attendees to the prestigious event, bringing together outstanding students from community colleges across Arizona.

Andrew Castillo, a political science major, serves as the president of EAC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges. He plans to transfer to the University of Arizona to pursue a career as a certified physician assistant.

Tucker Nielsen, a biology major from Saint Johns, also plans to become a physician assistant after completing his education.

The All-Arizona Academic Team recognizes students for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership, and community involvement. As honorees, Castillo and Nielsen will receive scholarships and tuition waivers to continue their education at one of Arizona’s public universities.

The event is part of the nationwide Phi Theta Kappa scholarship program, which provides top community college students with opportunities to further their education and careers.

For more information about Eastern Arizona College’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter and scholarship opportunities, visit www.eac.edu.

AboutEastern Arizona College:

Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.

EAC offers a diverse range of more than 90 degrees and certificates, including two bachelor’s degrees. The College is home to the state’s premier nursing school and a fine arts program that features Arizona’s only community college marching band. EAC also boasts an engineering program that prepares students for success at top-tier firms and universities.

Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. Experience on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.

What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.

Choose EAC as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.