Students of Distinction Archives
STUDENTS OF DISTINCTION 2025
Student of Distinction: Ashlyn Jorgenson
Physics
School of Natural Sciences, Health & Kinesiology
Nominated by Professor Lindsay Owens
'Ashlyn Jorgenson is deserving of the distinction award because of her commitment
to both her academic education and her demonstrated outstanding leadership and participation
in campus activities. Ashlyn is a dual-enrolled student at both JFK Middle College
High School and Norco College. Despite having just turned 18 this year, she will be
graduating with both her high school diploma and her AOE in Math and Science in June
2025 and is hoping to transfer to UC Berkeley to continue her studies. Ashlyn takes
her schoolwork very seriously and manages to balance both her classes with being a
lead of this year’s NC Rocketry Team. Beginning in the 2023-2024 academic year, Ashlyn
began participating in NC Rocketry and worked on the recovery system (parachutes)
of last year’s rocket, which won in their height category at the 2024 national FAR
OUT competition.'
'This year, Ashlyn stepped up as the leader of this year’s project team and set a very ambitious project for the year – a full liquid propellant rocket. In addition to overseeing the competition rocket, Ashlyn has demonstrated true leadership in her managing of the team, mediating conflicts between teammates, and being proactive in communication with students, faculty advisors, and ASNC. In addition, in true leadership form, she will never ask a teammate to do a task that she herself is not willing to do.'
'Finally, Ashlyn is a resilient problem solver; when an issue arises in rocketry, such as a design did not work or a test failed (and with a project of this scale, issues arise frequently), she will quickly step in to assess the situation and work with her teammates to determine the best course of action to keep the team on track with the project timeline. The ability to not let these small failures derail either herself or the competition project shows a real maturity beyond her years. I have every confidence that Ashlyn will not only succeed but excel at anything she puts her mind to.' - Lindsay Owens
Student of Distinction: Benjamin Nava
Architecture
School of Applied Technologies & Apprenticeships
Nominated by Professor Farshid Mirzaei
'Benjamin has a high grit and dedication on his study. A great role model for students.
Great achievements despite his barriers in language, hearing, age and background.'
'Benjamin shows up every session on time, prepared with a lot if dedication to his study. He respects everyone in class. He helps his classmates, too.' - Farshid Mirzaei
Student of Distinction: Daniel Stefan
Accounting
School of Business & Management
Nominated by Professor Patty Worsham
'I am honored to nominate Dan Stefan for the Student of Distinction award. Dan is
a standout student who demonstrates an unwavering passion for learning and consistently
sets high expectations for himself. His curiosity and dedication make him a true lifelong
learner, always striving to understand subjects deeply rather than just completing
assignments.'
'Beyond his own academic success, Dan is a natural mentor, always willing to help his classmates grasp difficult concepts and achieve their best. His kindness, patience, and leadership create a positive learning environment that benefits everyone around him. Dan is not only an exceptional student but also an outstanding individual, making him truly deserving of this recognition. ' - Patty Worsham
Student of Distinction: Deborah Flores
Humanities
School of Communication, Humanities & Languages
Nominated by Professor Michael Bobo
'Debbie is a widow whose husband passed of cancer. As a single mother of two children, she works to support her daughter (a RCCD student as well) and younger son with special needs. She has taken three Humanities classes in the past year with me as her professor. I can testify of her passion to educate herself and her children. She is well deserving of this honor. This semester, her computer had been hacked and she was targeted by cyber criminals. She had to purchase a new laptop after hers was compromised and the hardware failed. It would really lift her spirits to have this honor. She is terrific and I would love to see her feel recognized for her persistence and determination to finish her Area of Emphasis degree in Arts, Humanities, and Philosophy.'
'Debbie is actively involved in her classes. Every time I encounter her, she is engaging others and making them feel welcome. As a non traditional student, working mother, and caregiver to her own mother, she is not on campus as much as the younger students, but she is caring and generous to everyone in our class whenever she comes into contact with our younger, traditional students. She is an excellent choice for this award as a "mother" to so many Norco students in her classes.' - Michael Bobo
Student of Distinction: Juliett Santana Ruelas
Political Science
School of Social & Behavioral Sciences
Nominated by Professor Sandra Popiden
'POLS would like to nominate Juliett Santana Ruelas. I had the pleasure of having
Juliett in my POLS 4 (World Politics) class last year, where she earned an A grade
and exhibited strong leadership qualities and academic capabilities. Dr. Yañez-Ruiz
similarly seeks to recognize Juliett for work and contributions in his POL 11 (Political
Theory) and POL 23 (Race & Ethnic Politics) courses, and she has excelled throughout
her POLS course work.'
'Juliett is a POLS major who is preparing to transfer. After finishing her BA, she wants to pursue a law degree and continue and earn a PhD and become a college professor.'
'In addition to her strong academic achievements, Juliett is also emblematic of the Norco College mission and motto, "Today's students, tomorrow's leaders." She is already currently engaged in numerous types of public service, including as the current ASNC Senator of Campus Organizations, the President of the Pre-Law and Politics Club, and leader of the Mustangs Vote - Voter Registration Initiative.'
'In fall of 2024, Juliett worked diligently to lead and promote the Mustangs Vote, voter education and turnout campaign. She also led our NC Pre-Law and POLS Club and is active as a leader of the Fashion for Change Club. Last semester, Juliett helped to organize and run our Pre-Law & POLS distinguished guest speaker series. This included 7 speakers, such as - CA Rep. Jose Medina, CA Assembly Rep. Sabrina Cervantes, Jurupa Valley Mayor Guillermo Silva, Corona Mayor Tom Richins, CNUSD Board Member and VP Stacy Nicola. As well as our very own Associate Professor of Philosophy, Jose Sentmanat, who shared information about careers in law and his experiences working in the legal field as an Assistant Public Defender and his service on the Madison, WI City Council.'
'Moreover, Juliett has been also integrally involved in the planning and hosting of two extensive voter information sessions on campus. These have helped to better inform our NC student population about the importance of voting, the CA propositions, and down ballot measures. She has also organized numerous additional voter registration opportunities (such as at our Pre-Law and POLS Club events) and other events on campus. She also serves as the ASNC representative on the NC Distance Education Committee.'
'POLS offers our highest recommendation for Juliett. She is already exhibiting exemplary scholarship and dedication to public service, leadership, and civic engagement. We would love for Juliett to receive well deserved recognition for her many contributions to the college and community.' - Sandra Popiden
Student of Distinction: Victoria Henry
Art
School of Visual & Performing Arts
Nominated by Professor Michelle Ramin
'I have worked with Victoria for the past 2 years, in the art classroom as well as
through Art Club and now as a Gallery Assistant in the Norco College Art Gallery.
Victoria is a quiet, but powerful and brilliant presence in every capacity I've worked
with her. Kind and considerate, always a focused and thoughtful student with exceptional
artistic talent and work ethic, Victoria is a gem of a person and a dream student.
Every project, every drawing, everything she puts her mind to, she gives it her all.
I don't think she's always aware of how intelligent and creative she truly is, and
I believe this award could give deserved validation that she is, indeed, an outstanding
student as well as an incredible artist. I look forward to seeing her in the front
row of my classroom every day I have the privilege of working with her!'
'An active member of Art Club for the past 2 years, Victoria has been to and actively participated in numerous Art Club events including field trips, Harvest Fest, and others. She attends our weekly meetings in the Gallery and participates in all projects, sharing her ideas and leading her way through painting days, prep for events, scheduling trips, off-campus activities, and more. In the classroom, Victoria guides group projects and often leads presentations, often without being asked. She is a role model for many other students and consistently stands out as one of the most devoted and hardworking students in the classroom as well as in the Gallery and Art Club. .' - Michelle Ramin
STUDENTS OF DISTINCTION 2024
Student of Distinction: Alex Rodgers
Music Industry Studies
School of Visual & Performing Arts
Nominated by Professor Brady Kerr
'Alex Rodgers is an indispensable pillar of Music Industry Studies, embodying unwavering
dedication and excellence in his pivotal role as recording studio and live sound engineer.
As a recording engineer, Alex masterfully helps craft Norco Music albums and UMOJA
podcasts, showcasing not only his unparalleled expertise but also his relentless attention
to detail. Yet, his impact extends beyond the studio, as Alex seamlessly orchestrates
captivating live sound experiences on and off campus. From the electric atmosphere
of NOMU Fest to the prestigious CTE Expo and Advisory Breakfast and on-campus events
to the opening of ECE’s Stokoe facility, Alex leaves an indelible mark on every occasion,
additionally, as the live sound engineer for NC’s Studio Arts Ensemble, his talent
and dedication shine brightly. Alex’s relentless pursuit of quality and innovation
sets him apart, making him the epitome of MIS’s ethos of excellence. Undoubtedly,
Alex Rodgers is the quintessential candidate for student of distinction, embodying
the Norco Music program’s unwavering commitment to professionalism.' - Brady Kerr
Student of Distinction: Christian Reyes
Men of Color Scholars
Nominated by Professor Daniel Jesus Grajeda
'Chris is the Peer Mentor Lead for the MoC Scholars program and the MoC Community
Club President. He exemplifies the servant leadership style that is essential for
building a learning community through a seeking-to-understand approach toward the
students he serves. Every month, he organizes events that promote healthier habits
among students, and coordinates community-based socials, which include Norco College's
Read to Succeed. When I first met Chris- he was working two jobs while successfully
being a full-time student. Today, Chris is a Mustang; at the end of Spring 2024, Chris
will be a Bronco.
Chris has accepted his admission to Cal Poly Pomona for Fall 2024. He will continue his education studying Gender, Ethnicity, and Multicultural Studies with an emphasis on Native American studies. One of his career goals is to coordinate equity programs.' - Daniel Jesus Grajeda
Student of Distinction: Devin Dadah
Humanities
School of Communication, Humanities & Languages
Nominated by Professor Michael Bobo
'Devin Dadah has been an active member in Norco College Honors Program as a student
leader and participant in Research Conferences hosted by RCCD and Honors Transfer
Council of California. His passion for history and humanities is inspiring to me as
his professor and mentor. In many conversations during office hours, we've explored
the gamut of world cultures and issues facing our shared humanity. Mr. Dadah represents
the interdisciplinary focus of Humanities research with his exploration of history,
literature, media, and politics in his Honors essays. Topics like Utopianism during
the Renaissance, Voodoo and Marxist impacts upon the Haitian Revolution, and Star
Wars as a critique of Iraq War demonstrate his ability to critique contexts over the
past 500 years. Mr. Dadah's research is the mark of a Humanities Student of Distinction.' - Michael Bobo
Student of Distinction: Ileana Banuelos
English
School of Communication, Humanities & Languages
Nominated by Professor Cameron Young
'Ileana Banuelos showed incredible perseverance in pursuing her academics while she confronted numerous adversities and challenges. She never lost sight of what she was pursuing, she never let these adversities overtake her, and throughout her struggles, she always took the lead in class, was the first to ask questions (and not be bothered on how those questions "sound"), and always gave everything her all. She is an excellent example of a Norco College student and even more so of an intelligent, strong, and willful human being.' - Cameron Young
Student of Distinction: Jenny Pham
Art / Studio Art
School of Visual & Performing Arts
Nominated by Professors Michelle Ramin & Megan Lindeman
'For the past 2 years, Jenny has exhibited exceptional dedication to art, in and out
of the classroom. Beyond Jenny's exciting, creative, and thoughtful compositions,
she is an active member of the Norco College Art Club, attending all meetings and
inspiring community within the Norco College Art Discipline through their leadership.
Jenny is a pleasure to work with and devoted to their career in the arts, with plans
to attend a 4-year BFA program in animation/illustration. We are so excited to see
where Jenny goes in Art, and all the incredible things we know is in their future!
Thanks for being a rockstar, Jenny! We will miss you next year! Jenny Pham has demonstrated
huge growth as an artist and as person since she first enrolled in my ART-17, Beginning
Drawing class Fall 2022. Since then she has taken nearly every studio art course available
to her, and she has received straight A's. She is a Studio Arts major and will transfer
to Cal State Fullerton or Long Beach next semester. She is interested in both of the
animation and fine art programs at these universities.' - Jenny Pham
Jenny is very active in Art Club and has served as the Club's secretary. She sets a great example for other students in terms of work ethic and reaming authentically herself. She is inclusive, adventurous, enthusiastic, devoted to art, and a reliable hard worker. Her work as an artist is great and contains imaginative and inspiring aspects of her unique identity and vision of the world. She is a wonderful student and has great professional promise.' - Megan Lindeman
Student of Distinction: Lisseth Olmos
Drafting
School of Applied Technologies & Apprenticeships
Nominated by Professor Farshid Mirzaei
'Lisseth (Liz) Olmos is a stay-at-home mom and home school her 9-year-old son. She
is motivated to complete her Architectural certificate to start a job.
Liz Is very responsible in her TeamWorks and helping other students with their study.
She inspires the students in class to go beyond their limits and barrier.
Though Liz had no background in drafting and design, she works very hard to achieve
her goal. She is always volunteering to support the learning of her classmates and
very brave to be first in doing any new activities in and out of the classroom.
Liz brings great questions to class, which shows her dedication to her study as well
as her son. She never misses any appointment and has a high integrity in keeping her
word.
Liz is one of the good examples of students who want to start college after parenting
and break the fear of starting a new challenge.' - Farshid Mirzaei
Student of Distinction: Parisa Tajoddini
English as a Second Language (ESL)
School of Communication, Humanities & Languages
Nominated by Professor Margarita Shirinian
'Parisa Tajoddini has been in my classes for several semesters now. Parisa is an outstanding
student. She comes from Iran, and she has a law degree from her country. Being extremely
intelligent and hardworking, she focuses now on what is the most important for her
- improving her English language skills so that she can one day teach in college herself.
Parisa's dedication to her goal, motivation, study skills, optimism, and an inquisitive
mind make her a wonderful student. Parisa is also a mother of three young active
boys whom I met on Zoom. Parisa definitely deserves praise and recognition.' - Margarita Shirinian
Student of Distinction: Valerie Cruz Lopez
Political Science
School of Social & Behavioral Sciences
Nominated by Professor Sandra Popiden
'Valerie Cruz Lopez was my top student in POL 4 - World Politics and she excelled
in all aspects of the course. Valerie is a wonderful person, and a warm, respectful,
and motivated student. She really excelled in our 8-week WP interactive simulation,
working with other students to achieve cooperative international and domestic goals.
She was also an active participant in all our in-class activities, discussions, and
debates. Moreover, Valerie is an excellent communicator, writing insightful essays,
and providing thoughtful analysis in her coursework.' - Sandra Popiden
STUDENTS OF DISTINCTION 2023
Student of Distinction: Bobby Rigo
Music
Nominated by Professor Kim Kamerin
'Bobby is a multi-talented musician. He is earning degrees in Music Industry Studies
and Music and has distinguished himself in Chamber Singers, Music Theory, Piano, and
MIS-1. Bobby is energetic, dependable, well-liked, and respected by his peers and
instructors. He has remained steadfast in his goals through the pandemic and continues
to be an asset to the Music and MIS programs at Norco College.'-Kim Kamerin
Norco College student Bobby Rigo was selected as the 2023 Student of Distinction in the discipline of Music. He was nominated by Professor Kim Kamerin. Hear from Bobby on why he chose Music as his major and his experience about becoming a better musician.
Student of Distinction: Brittney Sanchez
Kinesiology
Nominated by Professor Ruben Aguilar
'Brittney embodies the definition of being a servant leader. Through her empathetic
leadership as Vice President of the Kinesiology Student Association (2022.) Brittney
is a natural leader, and it showed last semester when she planned and organized a
two-day conference at Cal State Long Beach with the NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning
Association.) With her leadership, 11 of our KSA students received a Foundations of
Coaching Lifts certificate. Brittney is now our club President this semester and has
grown our Kinesiology club from 23 members to over 40 new members. Brittney is a woman
of honesty and integrity whose depth of character is a model for others to emulate:
she is a success-driven, results-oriented, committed, hard-working individual who
possesses determination when faced with adversity and reflects caring and empathy
in her interactions with others. With all these leadership qualities, Brittney Sanchez
is our 2023 Student of Distinction in the Kinesiology Department.'-Ruben Aguilar
Norco College student Brittany Sanchez was selected as the 2023 Student of Distinction in the discipline of Kinesiology. She was nominated by Professor Ruben Aguilar. Hear from Brittany on why she chose Kinesiology as her major and her experience at Norco College.
Student of Distinction: Clarissa O'Malley
Chemistry
Nominated by Professor Jody Tyler
'Clarissa decided to come back to school after staying at home to help raise her children.
I had her in my Che-1B class in Spring 2022 and was excited to find out that she was
a Chemistry major. She is a hard working student but she also has a delightful personality.
She always has a smile on her face and enjoys interacting with others. Clarissa really
enjoyed lab and she was always thorough in her work. After watching her positive interactions
with others and seeing how she excelled in chemistry (she received an "A" in the class),
I asked her to be my embedded Tutor for Fall 2022. In addition, I was able to obtain
funds for her to also be a TA in my Che-1B lab. Students really loved her and felt
comfortable asking her for help. Clarissa was such a huge support for me and students
in the lab as it is very difficult for one instructor to be available for 32 students
in a lab when the experiments are complex and students need extra support. Clarissa
is a very intelligent individual, has an infectious personality and is a joy to be around. I hope you will support her in recognizing her as a Norco College
Student of Distinction for 2022.'-Jody Tyler
Norco College student Clarissa O'Malley was selected as the 2023 Student of Distinction in the discipline of Chemistry. She was nominated by Professor Jody Tyler. Hear from Clarissa on why she chose Chemistry as her major and her experience at Norco College.
Student of Distinction: Gerardo Devara
COMING SOON
Norco College student Gerardo Devara was selected as the 2023 Student of Distinction in the discipline of Computer Science. He was nominated by Professor Daniel Grejeda. Hear from Gerardo on why he chose Computer Science as his major and his experience at Norco College.
Student of Distinction: Marty Sanchez
Music Industry Studies
Nominated by Professor Brady Kerr
'Christopher “Marty” Sanchez is an exceptional example of what it means to be driven
and dedicated. He currently holds down four jobs and a full academic schedule. He
is the president of Battery, Norco College’s Drumline club, which he launched this
semester. Not only did he spearhead the club’s creation, but he has also been dedicated
to recruiting and building a community of inclusiveness, just like in his everyday
life. His peers admire Marty for his artistic prowess, drum skills, positive energy,
knowledge, and self-motivation. As his instructor, supervisor, and club advisor, I
think Marty is, without question, a student of distinction with superpowers. Music
Industry Studies is blessed to have him as an integral part of our program and a core
member of the Studio Arts Ensemble.'-Brady Kerr
Norco College student Marty Sanchez was selected as the 2023 Student of Distinction in the discipline of Music Industry Studies. He was nominated by Professor Brady Kerr. Hear from Marty on why he chose Music Industry Studies as his major and his experience at Norco College.
Student of Distinction: Mesbah Dawar
Architecture
Nominated by Professor Farshid Mirzaei
'Though Mesbah is the first time taking course with me, her great team playing, hard
work and dedication to her study can be recognized easily. She is working part time
also supporting her classmates when they need help. She is very active and aware of
her class as whole. Always prepare herself before the class and goes beyond expectations.
She should be recognized for all her hard work to be a light for her life and others.'-Farshid Mirzaei
Norco College student Mesbah Dawar was selected as the 2023 Student of Distinction in the discipline of Architecture. She was nominated by Professor Farshid Mirzaei. Hear from Mesbah on why she chose Architecture as her major and her experience at Norco College.
Student of Distinction: Teresa Guerrero
English as a Second Language
Nominated by Professor Margarita Shirinian
'I met Teresa in class in Fall 2022. She enrolled in my advanced Grammar/Writing
class. It was her first class at Norco College; actually, it was her first college
class ever, and it was rather challenging for her. However, Teresa did her best every
single day. She never missed any classes and was always ready in the morning with
her completed assignments, questions, and a big smile on her face. She was always
positive, motivated, and determined to listen and understand complex language phenomena.
The most important was her realization that she didn't imagine her life without school
any longer even though she was very busy with her family responsibilities, kids' activities,
and a job as a cafeteria worker at the CNUSD. This semester, Teresa is in my class
again. She exhibits the same great attitude and work ethics, and she is a pleasure
to have in class. Teresa definitely deserves to be recognized.'-Margarita Shirinian
Norco College student Teresa Guerrero was selected as the 2023 Student of Distinction in the discipline of English as a Second Language. She was nominated by Professor Margarita Shirinian. Hear from Teresa in her native Spanish on why she chose to take English as a Second Language classes and her experience at Norco College.
STUDENTS OF DISTINCTION 2022