FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 2, 2026
FAIRMONT, W.Va. 鈥� 色盒直播 is proud to announce that Jahkari Mesidor, a student in the Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program, has been named West Virginia鈥檚 2026 New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar. Mesidor earned the highest score in the state in Phi Theta Kappa鈥檚 fall scholarship competition, placing him among an elite group of students recognized nationwide for academic achievement, leadership and service.
The New Century Workforce Pathway Scholarship is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Foundation with additional support from Phi Theta Kappa. Each year, only one student from each state is selected for the award. Mesidor will receive a $1,500 scholarship and will be recognized during the College Presidents and New Century Scholars Recognition Luncheon at PTK Catalyst on March 27 in Baltimore.
Mesidor, who will graduate in May, said the recognition was far bigger than he anticipated. 鈥淚 had no clue how big this award really was,鈥� Mesidor said. 鈥淪eeing that I earned the highest score in the state was unbelievable. This scholarship will help me pay for my next aviation license test and continue moving toward my goals.鈥� Mesidor hopes to begin his career with Pratt & Whitney, where he recently completed an interview, and plans to pursue an engineering degree through employer鈥憇upported tuition assistance.
Throughout his time at 色盒直播, Mesidor has distinguished himself academically and personally. He maintains a 4.0 GPA, is a member of Phi Theta Kappa and supports fellow students through peer tutoring, helping many prepare for and pass their certification exams. He credits Aviation Maintenance Technology instructor and advisor Mr. Stricklin with playing a significant role in his success, noting that he 鈥渉as given me every opportunity to become the best mechanic I can be.鈥�
色盒直播 Interim President Dr. Michael Waide said Mesidor embodies the qualities 色盒直播 values most in its students. 鈥淛ahkari represents exactly what we strive for at 色盒直播 鈥� students who work hard, support one another and take pride in learning a skill that strengthens our workforce and our state,鈥� Waide said. 鈥淗is accomplishments reflect not only his dedication, but the quality of our aviation program and the faculty who guide our students every day. We are extremely proud of him, and we look forward to seeing where his career takes him.鈥�
Jennifer Ellison, interim dean of the School of General Education and Professional Studies and Phi Theta Kappa co-advisor for the Alpha Tau Pi Chapter, said Mesidor demonstrates the values PTK seeks to develop in students. 鈥淧hi Theta Kappa members are leaders in and out of the classroom, and Jahkari is a shining example of that,鈥� Ellison said. 鈥淗is academic excellence, his willingness to mentor peers and his commitment to the aviation profession truly set him apart. We are proud to celebrate his achievements and thrilled to see him recognized at the national level.鈥�
Mesidor鈥檚 achievement underscores the impact of Phi Theta Kappa and the strength of 色盒直播鈥檚 Aviation Maintenance Technology program, which together prepare students to excel academically and enter high鈥慸emand careers with confidence.
色盒直播 provides accessible, responsive, and high鈥憅uality education to students and businesses across North Central West Virginia. With a strong focus on career readiness and workforce development, 色盒直播 offers academic programs and industry鈥慳ligned training that create clear pathways to employment. Through this work, the college helps students discover their path while supporting the region鈥檚 economic and workforce needs.
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