Four Pierce College students excel in studies and life to earn All-Washington Academic Team award

Four Pierce College students will be honored as members of the 2013 All-Washington Academic Team in a ceremony Thursday, March 21, featuring Gov. Jay Inslee. The award recognizes top scholars from community and technical colleges throughout the state with scholarships.

The ceremony will be at noon March 21 in the Student Union Building at South Puget Sound Community College
, 2011 Mottman Road SW, Olympia, Wash., 98512.

The 2013 team members representing Pierce College Fort Steilacoom are Eileen Papale and Theresa Carr. The Pierce College Puyallup team members are Hannah Lampert and Colin Williams. Here is more about the award-winners:

Pierce College Puyallup

Hannah Lampert

Age: 17

GPA: 3.97

Major: Biological Science

Between sports and activities at her high school, full-time college classes through the Running Start program and a part-time job, Hannah Lampert is busier than most students her age. But it’s good practice for her future career as a physician. Hannah says if she can maintain her hectic schedule now with a positive attitude, she knows she can do the same as a doctor.

Colin Williams

Age: 18

GPA: 3.80

Major: Biology

After overcoming medical challenges, Colin Williams, a Running Start student, is studying to become a doctor. Williams has an intestinal condition that has required two major surgeries in four years. Even though he initially struggled to walk, he ran cross-country and track and took college classes.  He refuses to let disabilities control his life and he works to help others adopt the same attitude.

Pierce College Fort Steilacoom

Eileen Papale

Age: 53

GPA: 3.94

Major: Pre-nursing

When Eileen Papale decided on a career in nursing, she knew she’d have to muscle through math to get there. She was up for the challenge. A reformed math-hater, Eileen now tutors other students in statistics and is working toward a nursing degree. She says she’s often “motivated by challenges that seem impossible” and looks forward to serving others in the future.

Theresa Carr

Age: 45

GPA: 3.99

Major: Art and Digital Design

For Theresa Carr, returning to school after a career-ending injury brought about a transformation she never imagined. As a mother of seven, Carr had always focused on providing for her family. After her injury, she was forced to focus on herself, both in her physical recovery and in pursuing her dream of becoming an art teacher. Carr is now an award-winning, published artist and a member of student government.