2015 CCAA Scholars Recipients
During the Alumni Awards Banquet & Presentation at Christian College Reunion Weekend, the CCAA recognized four recipients of the CCAA Scholars Program. Students were awarded scholarships based on their academic merit and notable affinity for Columbia College. Meet these inspiring CC students.
Monty Dodge
Columbia College-Moberly student Monty Dodge has overcome enormous adversity to pursue his degree and ultimately, his future. “I have no computer skills, and writing a résumé was something that would have been very hard,” he says. As an incomplete quadriplegic, Monty excels in his business healthcare management degree with a grade point average of 3.5. “Columbia College has given me the possibility and hope of one day being able to get off of disability and rejoin the workforce.”
Anna Ralls
With a background in home school education, Anna Ralls understood how to work with and learn from a small group of people. Now, as a day student at Columbia College’s main campus, Anna has flourished in a larger community, maintaining a 4.0 grade point average as she pursues her English and creative writing degree. “Columbia College has expanded my view of the world and my place in it,” she says. “Not only have I learned more about the art and craft of writing, but I have learned about the art of living.”
Vendale Walker
As a full-time parent and worker, Vendale Walker would not be able to attend a traditional in-seat college. Columbia College’s Online program has afforded him the opportunity to succeed despite his busy schedule. “My experience has been challenging and rewarding,” he says. “Not only can I study and work simultaneously, but I can also spend time with my family.” With a 3.0 grade point average for his degree in information systems, Vendale has accepted an internship at HP as a customer engineer, which may turn into a permanent position. After graduating with his bachelor’s degree, he plans to return to Columbia College to obtain his master’s degree.
Crystal Woolfolk
Only one year after tragedy struck her family, Crystal Woolfolk enrolled at Columbia College-Lake of the Ozarks, and her life was transformed for the better. Her husband’s suicide had left her as a widow with five children. “Attending classes at Columbia College has given me back my confidence,” she says. “I know I can take care of my children and eventually provide a good life for my family.” A human services major with a grade point average of 3.0, Crystal hopes to become a drug abuse counselor. “Columbia College has given me the hope that even though I couldn’t help Scott, I can help someone through his story.”