David O’Quinn, a Greenville Technical College student majoring in Graphic Design, is one of 207 Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) members named a 2021 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar and will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in PTK programs and are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service, and leadership potential. More than 900 applications were received.
A total of $207,000 is awarded through the program. The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation provides $200,000 in funding for the scholarships, with $25,000 set aside for members who are veterans or active members of the United States military. The remaining amount is supported by donations to the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation and provides seven Global Leaders of Promise Scholarships, earmarked for international students.
Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The organization is made up of more than 3.5 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in 10 nations, with approximately 240,000 active members in the nation’s colleges.
O’Quinn worked for Walt Disney World in Florida for 26 years, beginning as a custodian and moving up through the ranks to handle IT issues for the Merchandise Division. He became proficient at creating presentations using self-taught skills, and when he retired and relocated to the Upstate, he sought to earn a degree that would improve his credentials. Expected to graduate from Greenville Technical College in spring 2022, he plans to transfer and earn a bachelor’s degree.
“I’m extremely honored,” said O’Quinn of the award. “This scholarship will help me tremendously with expenses, assisting with tuition and art supplies as I complete my associate degree and transfer.”