Lurleen B. Wallace Community College student B.J. Ammons was recently nationally recognized as one of the top 20 community college students in the United States, being named to the 2012 All-USA Community College Academic Team.

Ammons, of Red Level, received the recognition during the American Association of Community Colleges’ national convention in Orlando, Fla., and is one of only 20 students from more than 1,700 nominations selected for the prestigious

honor.

Presented by USA Today and Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society and sponsored by Follett Higher Education Group, the program recognizes exceptional students among the nation’s two-year colleges. Judges consider grades, academic rigor, growth, and how well the students use their education to benefit their schools and communities.

“This exceptional student has certainly left his mark on the faculty, staff, and students at our college,” said LBWCC President Dr. Herb Riedel. “We are excited about his future as he pursues his dream of a medical degree.”

The All-USA recognition earned Ammons a $2,500 scholarship and special medallion at the Phi Theta Kappa Presidents Breakfast during the American Association of Community Colleges convention. Riedel also received a commemorative obelisk in honor of the LBWCC student.

Earlier in the month, Ammons was recognized as an All-Alabama Academic Team member and Alabama’s New Century Scholar, which recognizes the state’s top community college student. He was also one of only 20 students in the nation to be named as a Guistwhite Scholarship recipient.

He is the first in his family to complete college and says he values his educational experience at LBWCC.

“I am grateful for the sound academic foundation provided by LBW’s faculty and staff,” he said. “I want to encourage people to pursue their educational dreams. Even though they may think it’s not possible, I’m proof that it is possible.”

At LBWCC, Ammons maintained a grade point average of 3.955 and served as president of both the Student Government Association and the science and engineering club. He also served as vice president of both the Campus Civitan Club and the Andalusia chapter of Phi Theta Kappa.

He volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and job shadows physicians at the local hospital.

“His dedication, perseverance, and community service are the characteristics of a true leader,” said Riedel. “We are very proud of his accomplishments and anticipate a bright future for this remarkable young man.”

Ammons is the son of Billy Joe Ammons of Red Level and Dora “Dee” Nelson of Andalusia.

He plans to become a doctor; however, at present, he is undecided as to where he will transfer after graduation from LBWCC in May.