March 14, 2017
Rebecca Darrup, a student at Mesalands Community College, was joined by Dr. Thomas W. Newsom, President of Mesalands, at the State Capitol for her election into the 2017 All-State New Mexico Academic Team.
Mesalands Community College is pleased to announce that Rebecca Darrup, from Mifflinburg, PA, and a member of the Mesalands Rodeo Team, has been selected to the 2017 All-State New Mexico Academic Team. Darrup was recently recognized for this honor during a special awards ceremony, at the State Capitol Building in Santa Fe.
As a member of the All-State Academic Team, Darrup will receive a renewable full-tuition scholarship for up to four consecutive semesters, towards a bachelor’s degree at a participating New Mexico public university or college. This scholarship program is provided by the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society that recognizes and encourages the academic achievement of two-year college students. According to the website, PTK also provides opportunities for individual growth and development though participation in honors, leadership, service and fellowship programming.
Darrup is a sophomore at Mesalands Community College, pursuing an Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts with an option in Communications. She is also working on an Applied Science Certificate in Artistic Silversmithing. Darrup is currently an intern with the Public Relations Department at Mesalands. This is her second year on the Mesalands Rodeo Team and she competes in barrel racing, breakaway roping, and goat tying. She is also the Vice President of the Mesalands Rodeo Club, the Treasurer for PTK, and the Secretary/Treasurer for the Student Horseshoers Organization for Excellence (S.H.O.E) Club).
Darrup says balancing academics and athletics can be challenging at times. She attributes her success to the support she receives from the faculty and staff at Mesalands Community College and from her family.
“Honestly, I wouldn’t change anything. I wouldn’t go anywhere else. I wouldn’t do anything else. Everyone at Mesalands has always been there when I needed them and has brought me really far as a person; and I’m really thankful for that,” said Darrup. “My family also pushes me and tells me this is what I’ve always wanted to do for so long, and now go do it!”
Darrup will graduate next year from Mesalands and she is thinking about continuing her education at Eastern New Mexico University, to major in Communications or Journalism.
“Rebecca Darrup exemplifies what it means to be an excellent student athlete at Mesalands Community College. She is committed to achieving academic success and is highly involved in extracurricular activities,” Dr. Thomas W. Newsom, President of Mesalands Community College. “On behalf Mesalands, I want to congratulate Rebecca for being selecting to this year’s All-State Academic Team, and we are proud to have her represent our institution. We wish her well as she continues to reach her goals.”
