MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Skagit Valley College students Jashpal Samran and Altynay Trofimchuk have been named 2026 World Impact Scholars by Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international honor society for high-achieving community college students.
Selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants nationwide, Samran and Trofimchuk were recognized for their academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to educational and career pathways that strengthen communities and support workforce needs.
Supported by a generous investment from Coca-Cola North America, the World Impact Scholars program celebrates community college students enrolled in degree and certificate programs that prepare them to contribute to their local economies and meet real workforce demands. The scholarship recognizes students pursuing high-demand careers aligned with workforce needs in communities hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup™.
“We are incredibly proud of Jashpal and Altynay for earning this prestigious recognition,” said Dr. Thomas Keegan, president of SVC. “Their selection as World Impact Scholars reflects not only their academic excellence and leadership, but also their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. They exemplify the talent, determination, and promise that we see every day in our students.”
According to PTK, the World Impact Scholarship recognizes outstanding community college students whose educational pathways contribute to economic mobility and prepare them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and regional economies.
“We are honored that Coca-Cola has invested in the World Impact Scholars,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, president and CEO of PTK. “Degrees and certificates from community colleges are powerful economic tools, and our World Impact Scholars are among the very best examples of students demonstrating leadership in high-demand fields that matter to their communities and to the future of our workforce.”
The recognition highlights the important role community colleges play in preparing students for meaningful careers while strengthening local communities. Samran and Trofimchuk will be recognized by PTK as part of the 2026 World Impact Scholars cohort.
About Phi Theta Kappa
Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them grow as scholars and leaders. The society serves more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters worldwide. Learn more at ptk.org.
Media Contact Info
Marisa Pierce, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
360.416.7957
marisa.pierce@skagit.edu