MIDLAND, Texas — Some chapters are worthy of recognition, but sometimes it's the people- that can't be left unnoticed.
Midland College President Dr. Damon Kennedy has received an award for new college presidents, according to the college.
The award is called the "Paragon Award for New Presidents" and was presented by Phi Theta Kappa, the International Honor Society for Community College students.
"It was part of our plan to get him nominated for this because we really wanted to honor him not only for this year but for many years," said Dr. Terry Gilmour, the director of Midland College's Honor's Program and advisor of the college's Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. "It's one of the highest awards you can get, and it is specifically for new presidents. [...] I don't know of many new presidents who come in as dedicated to the success."
Dr. Kennedy was announced as Midland College president in May 2023 and took the reins on July 3.
"This place has been really good to me," expressed Dr. Kennedy. "It set me on the path toward this position now. In 1992 I would have never envisioned being the president of Midland College."
Alpha Beta Phi at Midland College is one of about 1,300 Phi Theta Kappa chapters in the world.
"It's a great honor to be president and it's an even greater honor to have been recognized by my students," said Dr. Kennedy.
Dr. Kennedy will be one of 24 college presidents to receive the award during the PKT Catalyst 2024 in Orlando, FL. in April.