2017 University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Academic All-Star Named at Annual ACC Conference
The 2017 U of A Hope-Texarkana Academic All-Star Award was presented to Xavier McDonald of Hope, Arkansas, on Tuesday, October 17 at the Annual Arkansas Community College’s Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas.
This program recognizes the scholarly and service achievements of Arkansas’ two-year college students. Each All-Star receives a $500 scholarship for his/her final semester at their college of attendance and a full tuition transfer scholarship to any Arkansas public four-year university.
According to a press release, in his time at UAHT, Xavier has been named the Outstanding Concurrent High School Student, selected for the Quality Care Pediatrics Scholarship, and named to the Chancellor’s Honor Roll. He participates as an active member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, the Fine Arts Club, and as a volunteer for the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities. He also participated in the UAHT Supports the Troops fundraiser, in which he donated many items to be sent to deployed troops for Christmas and helped pack over 50 boxes that were sent overseas.
“I have always been impressed with the manner in which Xavier presents himself,” said Chelsea Slack, UAHT Instructor. “He is not only one of my smartest students – he is the only one of my many students that I would say is truly wise beyond his years and is constantly respectful.”
McDonald’s plans include transferring to the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville to major in Biology. Upon graduating from the U of A, Xavier plans to attend the University of Houston College of Optometry. After becoming an optometrist, Xavier plans to open an optometry office, donate back to his hometown, and travel to third world countries to provide free eye-care to those who cannot afford it.
“One of the reasons Xavier is such a successful student and good fit for the Academic All-Star Award is that he is very enthusiastic about learning and making the most of his opportunities. He is the type of student that is always ready and willing to participate in classroom activities. His talents, abilities, and drive will most certainly lead him to succeed in life,” said Slack.