Three Lakeland Community College students were recently named to the 2023 All-Ohio Community College Academic Team. Lakeland students Saige Carter, Hokeun Jee and Madison Zajaczkowski were among nearly 80 students from Ohio’s 23 community colleges honored for their excellence in academics, leadership and community service. A ceremony to recognize this year’s award winners was held Friday, April 28, as part of Community College Month in Ohio.

“Our community colleges play an essential role in moving Ohio to the front and center of today’s economy,” said Jack Hershey, president and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges (OACC). “We celebrate their work by recognizing the 2023 All-Ohio Academic Team. These men and women, representing all parts of the state, are shining examples of the way Ohio’s 23 community colleges are preparing the well-educated, motivated workforce our employers seek and the new global economy demands.”

The All-Ohio Academic Team program is a collaboration between the OACC, Phi Theta Kappa national honor society and Honda, the event sponsor.

“I am pleased to congratulate each of these honorees,” Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner said. “The members of this year's All-Ohio Academic Team are poised to become the leaders of tomorrow, contributing to the strength and vitality of their communities and our great state."

The top-performing students were nominated by college faculty, staff and leaders. Students recognized as first-team honorees will receive $500 scholarships, while second-team members earn $250 scholarships to assist students transferring on to universities to complete their bachelor’s degree requirements. The All-Ohio Academic Team also includes high-achieving students who are planning to move directly into the workforce and will also be recognized and receive awards.

Carter graduated from Lakeland in spring 2023 with an associate of artsdegree. Upon graduating, She will be transferring to Cleveland StateUniversity to study psychology.

Jee graduated from Lakeland in summer 2022 with an associate of arts degree.

Zajaczkowski, a graphic design major at Lakeland, will be graduating in fall 2023.

By: Kerry Ann Jonke, Asst Director Market & Communi