Graduates of Excellence is an annual recognition honoring outstanding students who have demonstrated exceptional achievement within their major or academic program and contributed meaningfully to their learning community.
Selected by each school’s Dean, these students embody academic commitment, intellectual curiosity and leadership in their discipline. Recipients have completed substantial coursework at GRCC, maintain a strong academic record, are on track to graduate and exemplify excellence through activities such as scholarly engagement, service, mentoring or contributions that elevate their program and peers.
Recipient Criteria
- Minimum of 45 credits completed at GRCC (or 75% completion of Workforce Training Program)
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Demonstrated contributions to their major/academic program, examples include:
- High academic performance in program-specific courses (A/B grades in 3 or more courses)
- Active engagement in workshops, guest lectures, field trips, service learning, etc.
- Leadership in student clubs or organizations related to their discipline
- Peer support through tutoring or mentoring roles
- Intellectual curiosity and scholarship (e.g., participation in an academic showcase, honors project or significant research)
- Evidence of serving the community
Process Timeline
February - Nominations Open
March 16 - Nominations Close
Week of March 25 - All Students Eligibility Verified via Student Records
Week of March 23 - Deans Meeting to Choose (5) Recipients
March 27 - Students Notified
April 16th - Academic Honors Recognition Reception
Student Recognition
Students selected as Graduates of Excellence will be invited to attend GRCC’s Academic Honors Recognition Reception, a mid-April celebration that highlights the remarkable accomplishments of our high-achieving students. This event brings together honorees, families, faculty and college leadership to recognize academic excellence and meaningful contributions to our campus community. Recipients will also hold a special role during commencement, honoring their impact and achievements in a more public way. Once selections are finalized, students will receive additional details and instructions for both the reception and their commencement involvement.
Past Winners - Graduates of Excellence
- Benjamin Lambright - School of STEM
- Diego Munoz - School of Business and Industry
- Lance Benedict Baje - School of Health Sciences
- Trent Renner - School of Workforce Training
- Coral De La Garza Ramos - School of Liberal Arts
For questions related to this award, please contact Sarah Gonzales at sarahgonzales@grcc.edu.