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Reynolds student named 2026 New Century Workforce Scholar

  • 30 March 2026

Heather Pasicolan earns national recognition and $1,500 scholarship for academic excellence and leadership

Three people pose for a photo in front of a Phi Theta Kappa "Catalyst" backdrop with a nautical theme. To the left, a young man in a black suit, pink tie, and glasses smiles brightly. In the center, a young woman in a maroon vest and glasses holds an award certificate and a medal. To the right, a man in a navy blue shirt and tan tie stands with his arm near the woman. All three wear conference lanyards. The backdrop features a large circular logo with a sailing ship and the words "Phi Theta Kappa Catalyst."

Heather Pasicolan, a student at Reynolds Community College, has been named a 2026 New Century Workforce Scholar — and was the top-scoring Virginia finalist for this national honor recognizing academic achievement, leadership and workforce readiness. Pasicolan will receive a $1,500 scholarship through the prestigious program.

The New Century Workforce Scholar program is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and is the first scholarship program of its kind focused specifically on students at associate degree-granting institutions who plan to transition directly into careers after completing a degree or certificate.

Pasicolan was selected for her academic achievements, leadership experience, campus involvement, and commitment to applying her learning beyond the classroom.

National recognition for student leadership

More than 2,300 students from nearly 1,400 college campuses across the country were nominated for the award. Only one New Century Workforce Scholar is selected from each state, making the recognition one of the most competitive honors available to community college students nationwide.

“Heather is the kind of student leader who makes everyone around her better,” said Dr. Ben Cowman, Director of Student Engagement and Leadership at Reynolds. “She is a thoughtful, kind, and genuine student leader whose commitment to excellence makes her an outstanding representative of our students and Reynolds. We are so fortunate to have her, and this recognition is incredibly well-earned.”

The scholarship celebrates students who demonstrate not only academic success but also leadership and service that positively impact their campus communities.

Supporting workforce-ready students

According to Phi Theta Kappa President and CEO, Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, the program helps expand opportunities for students as they prepare for careers after college.

“We congratulate Heather for receiving this prestigious scholarship, and we are honored to partner with The Coca-Cola Foundation to recognize these outstanding achievements,” Tincher-Ladner said. “Scholarship programs like this are integral for creating opportunities for students to succeed as they prepare to enter the workforce and for putting college completion within reach.”

New Century Workforce Scholars was recognized during Phi Theta Kappa’s annual convention, PTK Catalyst, which took place March 26–28 in Baltimore, Maryland.

Preparing students for success

Reynolds serves Central Virginia by providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce training opportunities. Through transfer programs, career and technical education, and partnerships with business and industry, the college prepares students for successful careers and continued learning while supporting the region’s economic vitality.

Pasicolan’s recognition highlights the impact of Reynolds students both inside and outside the classroom and underscores the college’s commitment to developing future workforce leaders.

For more information about Reynolds PTK program, visit our website.