71 students receive the 2026 All-Arizona Academic Team scholarship in its 31st Year

Students from Arizona’s community colleges, along with their families, friends, mentors and academic leaders from across the state, gathered in Mesa to celebrate the 71 recipients of the 2026 All-Arizona Academic Team scholarship. 

The prestigious award, provided by the Arizona Board of Regents since 1996, recognizes students for outstanding academic achievement at the community college level and their commitment to continuing their education at one of Arizona’s three public universities – Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University and the University of Arizona.

Each year, Regent Larry Penley attends the ceremony to recognize honorees for their hard work, dedication and pursuit of earning their bachelor’s degrees. 

“It is a privilege to celebrate these students and everything they’ve accomplished,” Regent Penley said. “They have shown determination, perseverance and a deep commitment to their education. Our universities will help them continue to grow and expand their perspectives to navigate future challenges. I am honored to recognize their achievements on behalf of the Arizona Board of Regents.”

The ceremony, coordinated by Mesa Community College on behalf of the board and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, included each honoree walking across the stage to receive a certificate and medallion recognizing their achievements.

Nora O’Brien, a scholarship recipient from Pima Community College pursuing a psychology degree, is filled with gratitude as she continues her education at the University of Arizona.

“With this scholarship, I feel like I can take on anything,” O’Brien said. “I feel more confident as a student who can focus on my classes and extracurriculars instead of finances. It’s really an honor.”

Selection to the All-Arizona Academic Team reflects success in a highly competitive review process that distinguishes students who have excelled academically while demonstrating leadership and service in their communities. Eligible students must maintain a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale, be in good academic standing and work toward an associate degree.

Finalists are further reviewed through multiple rounds of evaluation by leaders in business, education, government and civic organizations at the state and national levels.

“This recognition reflects years of disciplined effort, and Arizona will feel the impact of what these students go on to achieve,” Penley said.