Fall 2021 Highest Honors Graduates

Ashley Marie Klein is receiving an Associate of Arts in General Academics this morning.

While attending MCC, Ashley was employed as a tutor at Hill College.

When asked who influenced her academic success at MCC, Ashley says, “My parents, who went above and beyond to support me (my mother, especially, who was an amazing homeschool teacher for nearly a decade), my professors and friends at both Hill College and MCC, and Anja Wiedholz, whose friendship and tutoring gave me the tools I needed to test out of 4 semesters of German without taking a single formal class.”

Ashley plans to further her education at the Texas A&M University.

Congratulations, Ashley, for being one of McLennan Community College’s Highest Honor graduates!

Bethany Marie Smith is receiving an Associate of Arts in General Academics this morning. In attendance to celebrate with her are her parents and siblings.

When asked who influenced her academic success at MCC, Bethany says, “My parents, friends, professors, and MCC President Dr. McKown”.

Bethany plans to further her education at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor.

Congratulations, Bethany, for being one of McLennan Community College’s Highest Honor graduates!

Eliana Leonor Chavez is receiving an Associate of Arts in General Academics this morning. In attendance to celebrate with her are her parents and grandparents.

While attending MCC, Eliana was employed as a Sales Associate at Maurice’s in Waco, Lead Server at Café Alyce, and Barista at Bleu Coffee in Jersey City.

When asked who influenced her academic success at MCC, Eliana says, “I’m thankful for the support and encouragement of my parents throughout my education.”

Eliana plans to further her education at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Congratulations, Eliana, for being one of McLennan Community College’s Highest Honor graduates!

Kristine Antoinette Daniels is receiving an Associate of Arts in General Academics this morning. In attendance to celebrate with her are her husband and two teenage sons.

While attending MCC, Kristine was a stay-at-home-mom and member of Phi Theta Kappa.

When asked about what influenced her success at MCC, Kristine says, “I was first encouraged by my past position at Baylor University. Although I was employed briefly, it inspired me to go back to school full-time as a 48-year-old wife and mom of two. Primarily, my family encouraged me to keep pursuing my dream and not quit. Mostly, my husband Todd, helped and supported me emotionally and financially. He took care of the chores around the house so I could study and was even my tutor and proofreader when needed.”

Kristine plans to further her education at Tarleton State University.

Congratulations, Kristine, for being one of McLennan Community College’s Highest Honor graduates!

Libby Nicole Gerik is receiving an Associate of Arts in General Academics this morning. In attendance to celebrate with her are her parents and grandparents.

While attending MCC, Libby worked as a server and driver at Kona Ice.

When asked about what influenced her success at MCC, Libby says, “My mom has influenced my academic success because she is a strong, independent woman who believes in me.” Libby plans to apply to Dental Hygienist School and further her education at Tarleton State University in Waco through MCC's University Center.

Congratulations, Libby, for being one of McLennan Community College’s Highest Honor graduates!

Simitrio Amaro Ledesma is receiving an Associate of Arts in Teaching-EC-12 Generalist this morning.

Celebrating with him today is his mom, Maria; stepdad, Raul; sisters, brother, niece, extended family, and friends.

When asked who influenced his academic success at MCC, Simitrio says, “The drive to teach the next generations has definitely influenced my academic success. I want to be a role model for every Mexican boy and teach them that there is more to what we can do and not just what the world has stereotyped us to be. In addition, my family is the reason I am able to achieve my dreams. I want them to know that their sacrifices have paid off. I am also achieving my dreams, so my siblings can know that with hard work and dedication almost anything is possible.”

Simitrio plans to further his education at the Tarleton State University in Waco at MCC’s University Center.

Congratulations, Simitrio, for being one of McLennan Community College’s Highest Honor graduates!