Leeward Community College student Megan Riddle was named a 2023 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar by Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), and will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps support new PTK members with educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service and leadership qualities and are encouraged to participate in societal programs. Nearly 1,100 applications were received.
Supported by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, the Leaders of Promise Program enables PTK to award $200,000 to members annually, including members of the military and veterans.
For Riddle, being named a Leader of Promise Scholar is more meaningful than just the financial scholarship.“Earning this award makes me feel seen for my efforts and potential and it actualizes my success,” Riddle said. “Three years ago I was homeless with no job, no car, no money and I was terrified to enroll in college—I enrolled out of desperation. Now, I have no fears about how far I can go! Leeward provided the biggest stepping stone for me, accommodating my life with opportunities and resources as a working, low-income, single parent.”
“I am thrilled to hear of Megan’s achievement, along with the continued growth of Leeward’s Alpha Lambda Gamma chapter of PTK,” said Chancellor Carlos Peñaloza. “Our chapter continues to push our students to achieve more. Mahalo to Coca-Cola for providing these funds that help students with the resources they need to focus on their academic goals.”
Monica Marlowe, executive director of the PTK Foundation, said, “Research shows that Phi Theta Kappa members are four times more likely to complete a college degree than their peers. The Leaders of Promise Scholarships recognize students for what they have achieved already and assure that financial need isn’t an obstacle to achieving their academic goals.”
