The Keys of Knowledge for La Verne’s Spathias Were Softball and Computer Science

June 14, 2017
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La Verne resident Celine Nicole Spathias, a computer science major, was presented with a 2017 Citrus College Key of Knowledge award during the college’s 54th Annual Academic Achievement Awards ceremony held earlier this month. Keys of Knowledge are the highest academic honors presented by the college, and are awarded every year to the 10 students who have achieved the highest overall academic performances. Pictured (L-R): Celine Spathias and Softball Coach Jackie Boxley, award presenter.“Maintaining a high GPA while devoting time to the Citrus College softball team was challenging,” said Celine. “My coaches and parents helped me to be successful in both of these aspects.”  Photo courtesy of Citrus College

 

Citrus College, which has a proud history of celebrating the successes of its exceptional student body, hosted its 54th annual Academic Achievement Awards ceremony on June 1 in the Haugh Performing Arts Center. The event honored the academic, athletic and leadership contributions of more than 100 students.

 

“This distinct group of students embodies the hallmarks of exceptionalism,” said Dr. Geraldine M. Perri, superintendent/president. “We are proud of their accomplishments, and know that they will make a difference in the world.”

 

Among the recognitions presented were the prestigious Keys of Knowledge awards, which constitute the highest academic honor granted by the college. Keys of Knowledge are given to the 10 students who have the best overall academic performance as determined by GPA.

 

This year’s recipients were:

—  Johnny Elie Baradii, mathematics

—  Eric Wayne Burgess, recording technology

—  Jeffry Humberto Lazo Casanave, mathematics

—  Samantha Lynn Clifton, business

—  Mark Foo Si Xiang, business

—  Ciaran Donagh Gray, physics

—  Sydney Marie Lujan, political science

—  Krista Michelle Myles, biology

—  Celine Nicole Spathias, computer science

—  Tony Mark Zarza, nursing

 

Additionally, Distinguished Student awards – also known as the Top 100 or Department Awards – were presented during the ceremony. This special recognition is given to students whose academic successes place them at the top of their classes.

 

Jade Nua (softball) and Kenneth Cyprian (men’s basketball) received the Athletes of the Year award based on their academic records and all-around accomplishments as athletes. Most athletes who receive this award transfer to a four-year college or university to continue to pursue their educational and athletic goals.

 

Finally, Alex Bazaar and Adriana Mendez were granted the Service Leaders of the Year award. They were nominated for their academic achievement and volunteer service to the college and community.

 

“On behalf of the entire Citrus College community, I congratulate these remarkable students who have achieved such outstanding success both in and out of the classroom,” said Dr. Perri. “They have earned an important place in our college’s legacy.”

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