Illinois Valley Community College student Danica Scoma, from Utica, has been honored with top academic recognitions by Phi Theta Kappa, the national community college honor society. Scoma achieved Illinois’ highest score in a fall scholarship competition, earning her the title of 2026 PTK New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar and a $2,750 scholarship. She also secured a place among the nation’s top 20 community college students as a member of the 2026 All-USA Academic Team, accompanied by a $3,000 scholarship. Praised for her resilience and leadership, Scoma plans to pursue Global Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Scoma also serves as Student Trustee, plays soccer, and is a peer mentor.
“We congratulate Danica for receiving this prestigious scholarship, and we are honored to partner with the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and The Coca-Cola Foundation to recognize these outstanding achievements,” said Phi Theta Kappa’s President and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner.
“The All-USA program is a prestigious recognition of a student’s exceptional abilities both in and outside of the classroom,” Amanda Karpinski-Gorman, Director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, said. “These students are selected for their resilience, creativity, and ingenuity in tackling global and local challenges. We are incredibly proud of the individuals named to the 2026 team and eagerly anticipate the continued impact they will make.”
IVCC students have received PTK scholarships over the years but Scoma’s achievement stands out, said PTK advisor Eric Schroeder. “Earning multiple distinguished awards speaks not only to academic excellence but to the determination, hard work and drive that will continue throughout Danica’s educational and professional journey,” said Schroeder.