Former Russellville student makes academic team

Forty-six of the Alabama Community College System’s top scholars across the state were announced recently as the 2019 All-Alabama Academic Team, including one from Russellville: David Lugo Barrera, who attends Northwest-Shoals Community College.

Barrera is one of two students who were chosen from the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society “for their demonstration of academic excellence and intellectual rigor, leadership and service, and for their commitment to extending their education beyond the classroom to benefit society,” according to a press release sent out from the ACCS.

Barrera said he initially wasn’t sure if he should apply, but his adviser encouraged him and showed him how it could benefit his studies. Because of this nomination, he will receive a scholarship that will go toward furthering his education.

More than $64,000 total in scholarship money was awarded to the members of the All-Alabama Team.

“The individuals selected for the All-Alabama Academic Team represent our state’s best and brightest students and are a testament to the rewards of taking full advantage of the community college experience,” ACCS Chancellor Jimmy Baker said. “I’m truly optimistic for our state’s future with students like these at the helm.”

Barrera has a 3.7 grade point average, is an officer in Phi Theta Kappa and is a member of the Multicultural Club. He has been the vice president of service for Phi Theta Kappa for two years now, and he said because of his involvement in these groups, he has been able to participate in several service opportunities.

To be eligible for the team, students had to submit an application, have a minimum of a 3.5 grade point average and be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours in the semester.

This is Barrera’s third year at NW-SCC. He said he plans on pursuing a nursing degree and one day transferring to a university.